The Royal Monceau Hotel in Paris is a breathtaking example of contemporary design, and it’s easy to see why it’s my favorite hotel in the city. The hotel’s stunning interior is a masterpiece by the legendary French designer Philippe Starck, showcasing his signature blend of elegance and whimsy.
A Feast for the Senses: The Restaurant’s Culinary Journey
The hotel’s restaurant is equally impressive, with a menu that’s both creative and delicious. While the prices might seem a bit steep at first glance (appetizers range from €20-50 and main courses from €36-51), the exceptional value wine list more than makes up for it.
A Chef With a Heart of Gold
The chef, Laurent André, is a true gem. He’s incredibly approachable and even showed me the ladies’ restrooms personally, a task that turned out to be more challenging than it seemed, as they’re hidden downstairs behind the hotel’s bar. Our brief chat revealed his quick wit and genuine warmth, which are reflected in his captivating dishes.
A Gathering of the Chic
The restaurant attracts a stylish crowd of Parisians who appreciate exquisite design and dress accordingly. You’ll feel right at home wearing whatever is currently fashionable, as everyone embraces their own unique style.
An Amuse-Bouche to Delight the Palate
The dining experience begins with a delectable amuse-bouche of foie gras and artichoke that sets the stage for the innovative flavors to come. Although I personally prefer a creamier texture for foie gras, its slightly rougher consistency here worked well with the delicate artichoke.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
The two appetizers we ordered couldn’t have been more different, showcasing the chef’s flexibility and ability to surprise. That’s why I highly recommend trying the Discovery Menu (€90 EXCLUDING DRINKS), which features a starter, main course, and dessert by the renowned pastry chef Pierre Hermé, promising a delightful adventure.
A Culinary Masterpiece: The Brittany Crab
The Brittany crab dish was a culinary masterpiece, featuring a delicate combination of soft crab meat, jelly, avocado cream, herbs, and vegetables. A side of “warm Royal,” a seafood soup with a bubbly foam, added another layer of complexity and intrigue.
A Celebration of Asparagus: The Green Asparagus and Comté Soufflé
The Green asparagus and comté soufflé was a celebration of this seasonal vegetable, featuring shaved and cut asparagus for a variety of textures. The large chunks retained the asparagus’s natural juices, while the thin shavings allowed the butter sauce and cheese to shine. The dish was accompanied by a mini-soufflé with a touch of naughty hot cheese, which is a combination I would happily order again and again, preferably with a glass of French Chardonnay or German Riesling.
A Fusion of Flavors: The Rolled Swordfish
The main courses were equally impressive. While I found the Rolled swordfish marinated in seaweed with white asparagus and shellfish stew to be a bit much on one plate, the combination of flavors was truly exceptional. The swordfish, enveloped in seaweed, resembled a Japanese maki roll, but the fish was cooked and the seaweed marinated, a combination that didn’t quite work for me. However, the white asparagus and shellfish stew was a triumph – a delicious blend of flavors that was perfect on its own or with the restaurant’s freshly baked bread.
A Delicate Delight: The Fillet of John Dory
From the seafood selection, I would recommend the Fillet of John Dory in a crisp potato crust with artichoke, vegetables, and golden baby potatoes. The fish was perfectly cooked, and the thin crust allowed the fish’s natural flavors to shine. The rich and concentrated sauce that permeated the artichoke, vegetables, and potatoes called for a red wine like Pinot Noir.
A Sweet Indulgence: Pierre Hermé’s Macaroons
The desserts are the highlight of the restaurant and are created by the legendary Pierre Hermé. As a self-proclaimed macaroon enthusiast, I couldn’t resist indulging in his creations. His macaroons are simply divine, and I found myself eating two before my brain even registered what was happening! Even though I knew I wanted to share this experience with others, it was impossible to stop. My craving was hypnotizing! While I write this, I’ve already visited the kitchen three times for a sweet treat. I finally discovered a zero-calorie substitute at the hotel’s library and design shop – a Pierre Hermé scented candle, which is supposed to last for 60 hours! While I may lose weight smelling it for 60 hours, I doubt it could ever provide the same pleasure as savoring a macaroon or two.
A Wine List to Impress
The sommelier has done a great job curating a wine list that includes both affordable and high-end options. The wines-by-the-glass selection is particularly impressive, featuring lesser-known French wines and producers, making it a perfect opportunity to discover new favorites.
Conclusion: A Parisian Gem
The Royal Monceau is more than just a hotel. It’s a unique destination that offers a blend of exquisite design, exceptional cuisine, and an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a stylish place to stay, a memorable dining experience, or simply a taste of Parisian luxury, the Royal Monceau should be at the top of your list.
