Everyone knows that there’s no shortage of good places to eat in Paris. There are affordable eateries, friendly little bistros and Michelin-starred addresses… But that’s not all! The City of Light is fortunate to boast several exceptional, century-old addresses. Le Cyrano, in Paris’s 17th arrondissement, is just one example. This century-old bistro lived a sulphurous life before becoming the preferred address of local gourmets. Formerly a brothel, the restaurant later became a haunt for surrealists. Its Art Nouveau decor will transport you to another era…
Le Cyrano: a century-old bistro with an Art Nouveau spirit
The first thing that strikes you as you enter this restaurant are the large mirrors with their golden sheen. Richly decorated with mosaics, these floral ornaments typical of Art Nouveau are perfectly preserved. With its huge marble counter,chandeliers and period woodwork, you can feel the desire to preserve the Paris of yesteryear…
It’s true that Cyrano was once a sultry address where pretty ladies used their charms to seduce gentlemen… But it’s now the sweetness of its dishes that attracts us. Since 2022, four friends have taken up the challenge of dusting off the menu, while preserving the beauty and history of the place. Chef Charleyne Valet uses seasonal produce with talent, finesse and inventiveness.
You’ll love the pig pie with sweet potatoes, the well-seasoned knife-edged beef tartare or the surprising chocolate fondant with candied fennel (yes, yes, but I promise, it goes divinely well). The menu is simple, with three starters, three main courses and three desserts at lunchtime, and plates to share in the evening.
It’s good, it’s fresh, it’s from the heart and it’ll make you want to go back. Dishes range from 12 to 20 euros, and the quality is top-notch.A little piece of history, little known to the general public, that you’ll love to discover.
Location: 3 Rue Biot 75017 Paris