Thierry Costes, the man behind the iconic Costes brand, is excited about the new direction of his restaurant, Thoumieux. He’s thrilled with the arrival of Sylvestre Wahid, the celebrated chef who took over from Jean-François Piège. Costes praises Wahid’s seamless transition and natural talent, emphasizing his two-star Michelin experience at both L’Oustau de Baumanière and Le Strato.
Costes highlights the long-standing legacy of Thoumieux, a restaurant that has been around for a century, attracting generations of Parisians. He views its history as a series of passing the torch, from Mr. Thoumieux to Chartier, Thierry Costes himself, Jean-François Piège, and now Sylvestre Wahid. This continuous flow embodies the heart and soul of the establishment.
While Thoumieux is grounded in its tradition, it also strives for creativity. It’s a space where innovation thrives, reflecting the Costes family’s commitment to pushing culinary boundaries.
The Costes Brand: A Family Affair
Costes is quick to point out that each member of the Costes family – his father Gilbert, his uncle Jean-Louis, and himself – brings their own unique touch to the family’s collective vision. They all share a common eye for style, a passion for hospitality, and a dedication to creating experiences.
While each Costes member has their own personal flair, there is a strong sense of unity and pride in the family legacy.
Breaking the Mold: Hôtel Amour
Costes stands out from his predecessors with his desire to explore new formats and cater to a broader audience. The Hôtel Amour, a bold departure from the traditional Parisian hotel scene, offers a casual, underground vibe, with a focus on affordability and a welcoming atmosphere. It became an instant success, offering a unique alternative to the city’s luxurious hotels.
Now, the Costes family is expanding the Hôtel Amour concept with the launch of Grand Amour Hôtel, boasting 43 rooms and a grand restaurant. This project reflects Costes’s ambition to bring a fresh approach to Parisian hospitality.
A Flourishing Food Scene
Costes sees the Parisian food scene as a vibrant ecosystem fueled by creativity and innovation. Startups and young professionals are driving the scene, creating a dynamic and disinhibited environment.
The rise of local sourcing and quality ingredients are key drivers in this exciting new wave. This influx of culinary talent, coupled with the city’s entrepreneurial spirit, presents a unique challenge for established players like Costes. He embraces this competition and sees it as an opportunity to evolve and stay relevant.
Redefining Nightlife
While some may believe that Paris has lost its nightlife appeal, Costes begs to differ. He argues that the city’s nightlife has simply shifted, with Parisians seeking out more intimate gatherings and unconventional experiences.
The Costes family remains deeply invested in Parisian nightlife, operating several nightclubs that cater to different tastes. They believe in creating spaces that connect with people, offering a unique blend of hospitality and entertainment.
Costes, however, remains focused on his core business, emphasizing a strategic growth plan. While he’s open to exploring opportunities outside of Paris, he acknowledges the commitment and dedication required to succeed in new territories.
The Future of Costes
The Costes brand is a testament to a family’s passion for creating unforgettable experiences. From iconic restaurants to charming hotels, they’ve consistently pushed boundaries and challenged conventional norms. As the brand continues to evolve, Costes’s vision for the future remains clear: to stay true to their roots while embracing the future of Parisian hospitality.
