Stepping into the revitalized Restaurant Rochechouart feels like a journey back in time, a time machine transporting you to a beloved era in Paris. The restaurant is not only a treasured local haunt but also a social media darling, capturing the hearts of both Parisian residents and global travelers. This is a story of a historic Parisian hotel that has been lovingly restored, breathing new life into its past while embracing the vibrant spirit of modern Paris.
A Love Affair With History
The Solanet siblings, Anouk and Louis, the driving force behind Orso, the company that renovated and reopened Hôtel Rochechouart, are deeply passionate about Parisian history. This passion shines through in every detail of the hotel, a jewel of the 1920s, now nestled in the trendy Pigalle district.
“Parisian history has many layers: revolutionary and romantic,” they explain. “The architecture of the city reflects centuries of history, visible from every corner.” Their vision for Hôtel Rochechouart was to preserve and celebrate this rich heritage, offering guests a unique glimpse into Paris’ captivating past.
A Taste of Parisian History
The history of Paris is not just in its architecture but also in its culinary traditions. At Hôtel Rochechouart, the experience is multi-sensory, with every corner echoing the city’s gastronomic legacy. From the basement to the rooftop bar, overlooking the iconic Sacré-Cœur, visitors are treated to a symphony of Parisian flavors.
The ground floor’s Restaurant Rochechouart, with its swirling Art Deco mosaic floor, welcomes guests for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, attracting both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Parisian experience. The menu, a testament to the Solanets’ commitment to both tradition and innovation, features dishes that are both comforting and sophisticated.
“We aimed to create a menu that is both authentic and timeless,” they share. “With playful nods to the neighborhood, some dishes reference nearby train stations like Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est, while others are inspired by specialties popular in the restaurant’s heyday, such as Venetian-style veal liver.”
A Fusion of Old World Charm and Modern Flair
Restaurant Rochechouart beautifully blends the elegance of a bygone era with the contemporary energy of Pigalle. With its Art Deco dining room, adorned with white linens and silver napkin rings, the restaurant seamlessly merges bistro and bourgeois aesthetics, perfect for capturing those coveted Instagram-worthy moments.
“The French ‘grand restaurant’ spirit is ever-present, but with a modern twist that feels right at home in Pigalle,” the Solanets explain. “The menu is an ode to beautiful products and local flavors, all while staying true to authentic French cuisine. Expect dishes like vol au vent, roast turbot, or chicken crapaudine.”
A Nightclub Reimagined
The history of Hôtel Rochechouart extends beyond the restaurant, reaching into the depths of its basement, where the iconic Mikado nightclub resides. Mikado, a hidden gem that flourished during the Roaring Twenties as a popular cabaret, has been reborn, retaining its original spirit while embracing a contemporary vibe.
Last year, the space underwent a transformation, adorned with plush carpets, soft sofas, and poufs, lavish velvet curtains, and glittering disco balls, setting the stage for electrifying evenings of dancing and entertainment. On weekends, the stage comes alive with DJs, local artists, and performers, filling the air with music and energy.
“Mikado continues its legacy of welcoming artist friends and giving them creative freedom,” the Solanets say. “We feel that our guests enjoy making a historic place their own, feeling a connection to the venue’s history.”
A Celebration of Parisian Life
Living in or visiting Paris is inseparable from the city’s history, and Hôtel Rochechouart embodies this spirit perfectly. The Solanets believe that Paris is all about rediscovering and reinventing places while maintaining their historical soul and charm.
“Parisians cherish the art of living,” they say. “They enjoy sipping wine on terraces, strolling along the Seine, and savoring meals at restaurants. As Hemingway said, ‘Paris is always a party!'” Hôtel Rochechouart is a testament to this vibrant spirit, a reminder that even amidst the ever-evolving cityscape, the essence of Paris remains timeless, waiting to be discovered in every corner.
