Imagine stepping into a world of elegance and sophistication, where every detail whispers of refined taste and historical charm. Welcome to the Hotel Plaza Athénée, a Parisian landmark that has captivated discerning travelers for over a century. Nestled in the chic 8th arrondissement, this Brunei-owned hotel sits proudly on Avenue Montaigne, a stone’s throw from the iconic Champs-Élysées and the Palais de Tokyo. Part of the prestigious Dorchester Collection, the Plaza Athénée offers a symphony of luxurious experiences, making it a true gem in the crown of Parisian hotels.
A Rich History of Glamour and Excellence
The Plaza Athénée’s story began in 1913, when its doors first opened, welcoming guests with promises of opulent comfort. Its first manager, Emile Armbruster, bestowed upon it a name that has become synonymous with Parisian grandeur. From the very beginning, the hotel attracted a constellation of stars, with renowned composers and artists gracing its tables after their performances. Jacques-Léon Colombier, a culinary maestro who had won the coveted London Gourmet Prize, held the reins as head chef, ensuring that the restaurant’s dishes were as impressive as the hotel itself. Even during the turmoil of World War I, the Plaza Athénée stood strong, a beacon of continuity and elegance amidst the chaos.
A Legacy of Expansion and Refinement
The 1920s ushered in an era of expansion for the Plaza Athénée. Under the leadership of Jules Lefebvre, the hotel’s footprint grew with the addition of apartment hotels, a new restaurant called La Cour Jardin, and two inviting salons. The Le Relais restaurant, during the Liberation of Paris, transformed into a haven for American soldiers, offering them a taste of normalcy amidst the war. The year 1947 saw the legendary fashion house of Christian Dior establish itself next door, adding another layer of glamour to the hotel’s already dazzling aura. Georges Marin took the helm as hotel director in 1963, guiding the Plaza Athénée through a period of steady growth and evolution. The Forte Group acquired the hotel in 1968, further solidifying its place as a symbol of Parisian luxury.
A Modern Renaissance of Culinary Brilliance and Design
The late 1990s marked a new chapter in the Plaza Athénée’s history, with François Delahaye spearheading a major renovation. He sought to elevate the hotel’s culinary offerings, and chose the acclaimed chef Alain Ducasse to oversee the catering services and create a menu for the hotel’s new restaurant, aptly named after him. Ducasse’s genius shone through, earning him three Michelin stars for his Plaza Athénée restaurant in 2001. Delahaye’s vision also extended to the hotel’s pastry and other dining experiences, appointing Christophe Michalak as pastry chef at La Galerie des Gobelins and Philippe Marc as chef of Le Relais Plaza.
A New Century, a New Chapter: Redefining Luxury
In 2001, the Dorchester Collection, on behalf of the Brunei Investment Agency, acquired the Plaza Athénée, further solidifying its position as a global icon of luxury. The Brunei Investment Agency fully acquired the hotel buildings in 2003, cementing its ownership. Laurence Bloch, appointed hotel manager that year, embarked on a mission to refresh the hotel’s interior, commissioning Bettina Mortemard and Marie-José Pommereau to revitalize the 194 rooms and suites.
Embracing the Future: Innovation and Distinction
The Plaza Athénée continued to evolve, embracing innovation and excellence. In 2008, the Dior Institut, a testament to the hotel’s enduring connection with fashion, opened its doors, offering guests the ultimate in pampering and rejuvenation. The hotel received the prestigious “Palace” distinction in 2012, the highest accolade for luxury hotels in France, a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence.
A Grand Transformation: Expanding the Boundaries of Luxury
In 2014, the Plaza Athénée underwent a spectacular 200 million euro expansion and renovation, adding six new guest rooms, eight opulent suites, a grand ballroom, and two dedicated event spaces, further enhancing its reputation as a premier destination for discerning travelers. The renovation also integrated additional buildings, extending the hotel’s luxurious embrace.
A Symphony of Style: French Elegance Meets Art Deco Charm
The Plaza Athénée’s design is a harmonious blend of classic French style and Art Deco flair. The hotel’s main spaces exude a timeless Parisian elegance, while the seventh and eighth floors offer a glimpse into the world of Art Deco, with intricate details and captivating geometric patterns. Red canvas awnings grace every window, and vibrant geraniums bloom in window boxes, adding pops of color to the hotel’s iconic facade.
A Culinary Journey: Indulging the Senses
The Plaza Athénée offers a culinary journey that tantalizes the senses. Alain Ducasse’s haute cuisine restaurant, serving delectable dinners on weeknights and lunches on Thursdays and Fridays, takes center stage. The hotel’s other dining gems include the Relais Plaza, showcasing the finest in classical French cuisine, La Cour Jardin, offering Riviera-style delights, La Galerie des Gobelins, where guests can enjoy breakfast, light lunches, afternoon tea, and pastries, and Le Bar du Plaza, a vibrant nightspot. The Plaza Athénée has been a haven for culinary masters, with renowned chefs like Jacques Pépin gracing its kitchens.
Beyond the Ordinary: Amenities and Entertainment
The Plaza Athénée offers a comprehensive range of amenities designed to enhance every guest’s stay. A sauna and steam room provide moments of relaxation, while the Dior Institut, a sanctuary of beauty and well-being, offers a luxurious escape.
The Plaza Athénée has graced the silver screen, appearing in iconic films and television shows like “Sex and the City,” “Something’s Gotta Give,” “The Smurfs 2,” “Emily in Paris,” and “Le Week-End,” further cementing its status as a symbol of Parisian glamour.
The Hotel Plaza Athénée is more than just a hotel; it’s a destination, an experience, a testament to the enduring allure of Parisian luxury. From its rich history and timeless elegance to its exceptional dining and unparalleled service, the Plaza Athénée continues to captivate the hearts and imaginations of discerning travelers around the world.
