Laperouse

NileGuide Expert tip:

Lunch at the bar is an inexpensive way to imbibe the history of this place

Description:

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  In 1840 Jules Lapérouse took over a bar in this ancient building which had once belongs of Louis XV's wine merchant. In those days, the bar was popular with lawyers who used the little first-floor rooms to meet their clients. They were also popular with couples for secret assignations. Towards the end of the 19th century, the clientele became more literary, and included Guy de Maupassant, Zola Colette and Victor Hugo. Its food came to the fore, and the great chef Escoffier cooked here for a while. Today the chef Alain Hacquard maintains the tradition of classic French cooking, but brings it up to date. Dishes such as panfried calf's head with parsley sauce and ear fritter or jack rabbit with foie gras ravioli and black truffle are ambitious, as are the prices. Watch what you're ordering price-wise on the wine list, too. There's a simpler lunch menu which is good value.
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