Imagine stepping into a world where the outdoors flows seamlessly indoors, where the scent of fresh herbs mingles with the aroma of delicious food, and where the calming influence of nature enhances every dining experience. This is the essence of biophilic design, a concept gaining momentum in the world of restaurants, and Paris, a city known for its culinary delights, is leading the charge.
More Than Just a Meal: Biophilic Design Takes Center Stage
John Muir, a renowned naturalist, aptly stated, “In every walk with nature one receives far more than one seeks.” As urbanization continues to dominate our lives, we crave a connection to nature, a feeling of peace and renewal. Biophilic design bridges this gap, bringing the tranquility of the outdoors into our built environments. From our apartments to our offices, we seek spaces that inspire, rejuvenate, and contribute to our overall well-being. And in the world of dining, this movement has created an exciting trend—restaurants that are not only serving exquisite cuisine but also offering a sensory experience that feels like a walk in the park.
A Feast for the Senses: Paris’ Biophilic Dining Gems
Paris, with its captivating charm and endless culinary treasures, is a haven for foodies seeking unique dining experiences. The city’s trendiest restaurants are embracing biophilic design, weaving greenery into their spaces in innovative ways to create a distinctive ambiance and elevate the overall dining experience.
From the bustling trattoria of Pink Mamma to the cozy intimacy of Zola Paris, these restaurants are redefining the concept of “dining out.” They are not simply serving food, but rather creating a complete sensory journey—a tapestry of flavors, aromas, textures, and sights that transport diners to a world of natural beauty.
Pink Mamma: A Four-Floor Italian Adventure 🇮🇹
Pink Mamma, a vibrant addition to the Big Mamma group’s collection of Italian restaurants in Paris, is an absolute must-visit for anyone exploring the city. The lively atmosphere, a symphony of Italian charm, is enhanced by the captivating interior design, a masterpiece of biophilic design.
This multi-sensory journey begins on the first floor, where an elegant cocktail bar sets the stage for a night of culinary delights. Each of the four floors exudes a distinct personality, taking diners on a whirlwind tour of Italian design—from the retro ambiance of vintage tapestries to the Florentine inspiration of another floor. The trattoria-themed area, adorned with antique plates and offering a peek into the kitchen, adds a touch of authenticity to the experience. And for a taste of tea-time bliss, venture to the top floor, a gazebo-like space bathed in natural light, where an array of tempting pastries awaits.
The biophilic influence is evident throughout the restaurant—from the climbing leaves adorning the building facade to the lush green plants gracing nearly every corner. Even the glass rooftop ceiling, adorned with wine creepers, adds a touch of natural beauty.
Zola Paris: A Hidden Gem in the Passage des Panoramas
Tucked away in the Passage des Panoramas, a charming passage filled with hidden surprises, Zola Paris is a delightful discovery for pizza and pasta lovers. The talented designers at Les Naturistes have transformed this space into a botanical wonderland, with carefully chosen hanging plants adorning the ceiling, creating a unique and charming atmosphere. Lights shaped like round glass balls dangle among the leaves, adding a touch of whimsy.
In the back of the room, a large antique mirror expands the space, reflecting the neon lights and creating an illusion of depth. The basement, small yet cozy, is a green oasis, boasting a unique and pretty decoration with lush greenery.
Pavillon des Canaux: A Quirky Oasis on the Canal de l’Ourcq
Escape to a haven of whimsy and charm at the Pavillon des Canaux, a small house with a beautiful glass roof overlooking the Canal de l’Ourcq. This unique café offers a truly immersive experience, with rooms reminiscent of a bathroom, kitchen, living room, and bedroom, each boasting a special decoration. It’s a place to gather, relax, and enjoy a leisurely brunch while relishing the enchanting views.
The terrace, nestled by the water’s edge, is a picturesque spot for a delightful brunch. And for those seeking a touch of adventure, exploring the upstairs rooms, each with its own unique character, is a delightful experience.
Maison Sauvage: A Country-House Charm in Saint Germain des Prés
In the heart of Saint Germain des Prés, Maison Sauvage offers a charming respite for breakfast or brunch. With a flowery facade encompassing the entire building and a country-house spirit evident in its décor, this spot is sure to delight.
While the flowers adorning the facade may be faux, the decoration evokes a sense of warmth and comfort. The delicious bacon, cheddar, egg, and avocado breakfast sandwich, served on fresh bread, and the melt-in-your-mouth croissants are a testament to the quality and care taken in preparing every dish.
Bellefeuille: A Verdant Terrace for Special Occasions
For those seeking a unique dining experience on a verdant terrace in the heart of Paris, Bellefeuille is a haven of serenity. This intimate space offers an alternative summer dinner menu, perfect for celebrating a special occasion in a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere.
The 6-course tasting menu, a journey through the flavors of the forest, sea, and Paris, is a symphony of delightful dishes, beautifully presented and named. The chef’s respect for the freshest seafood is evident in every bite, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality ingredients.
Bellefeuille embraces biophilic design, weaving nature into the heart of the guest experience—from its décor and garden to its menu. The chefs use vegetables from their own garden south of Paris and honey from beehives situated in Saint James’s garden, adding a touch of freshness and authenticity to every dish.
Brach: A Verdant Rooftop Oasis with a View of the Eiffel Tower ✨
Imagine a rooftop bar, perched high above the city, nestled within a garden of berries, aromatic herbs, and flowers—this is the essence of Brach, a boutique hotel boasting a unique and enchanting dining experience. The restaurant terrace on the ground floor offers a fusion Mediterranean menu, while the first floor features an Asian-inspired menu.
The true gem, however, lies on the rooftop, where a vegetable garden and a summer cocktail bar offer panoramic views of Paris. And the surprises don’t end there—a Norwegian bath and a coop of hens add a touch of whimsy to this magical space.
The setting is magnificent, spacious, and simply magical, especially at sunset. While the sushi rolls are delicious, be prepared for a bit of a wait, as the demand for this culinary delight is high.
Brach seamlessly blends natural materials with metal and leather, creating a unique and inviting ambiance. Wooden seats nestled within the herb garden and surrounded by vegetable beds bring a touch of rural charm to the overall chic space.
