This Paris brasserie, listed as a historic monument, boasts a stunning Belle Époque décor. Yet many Parisians have yet to discover this incredible address. Just a stone’s throw from the Palais-Royal, nestled in the Galerie Colbert, discover Le Grand Colbert. This institution bears witness to the prestigious history of Paris and celebrates French gastronomy. We tell you all about it.
Le Grand Colbert: a Belle Époque monument steeped in history
With its majestic façade, the Grand Colbert plunges visitors into a timeless atmosphere. It features curved woodwork designed by architect Ramon de Hervas. This exceptional façade has been listed as a Monument Historique since 1974.
Once you open the door, its marble columns and 6-meter-high walls will continue to enchant you. As will its sculpted pilasters and mosaic floors. The gilded mirrors, carved woodwork, black leather banquettes and sparkling chandeliers will also transport you straight back to the Belle Époque.
The history of this exceptional place is equally fascinating. The building was erected in the 17th century for Jean-Baptiste Colbert, the great minister of Louis XIV. But it was in 1900, for the Universal Exhibition, that the site was transformed into a brasserie. At the time, it was one of the cheapest bouillons in Paris! Restored in 1985 by the Bibliothèque nationale de France, the room has been restored to its original splendor.
It’s hardly surprising that film cameras have been invited in. For example, Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson dined here in Something’s Gotta Give, a film that brought international acclaim to the Grand Colbert.
French cuisine through the ages
If the setting is splendid, the menu is no less so. Here, we celebrate the great classics of French gastronomy as we love them. On the menu: escargots de Bourgogne, foie gras, onion soup, frogs’ legs, mayo eggs… You can also enjoy stewed dishes with a taste of yesteryear: pike quenelle, veal blanquette, coq au vin, kidneys or black pudding. Finally, true to the maritime heritage bequeathed by Colbert, the brasserie also offers a wide range of seafood dishes… A true gustatory voyage!
Behind its grandiose decor, Le Grand Colbert remains rather affordable. It has, however, lost some of the simplicity of its early days as a bouillon. The restaurant offers a bistro menu from Monday to Friday until 6pm, so you can enjoy this Parisian institution without breaking the bank. Count on 30 euros for 2 courses and 40 euros for 3 courses during the week. And for evenings, there’s the Parisian menu: from 6 p.m. onwards, compose your dinner by choosing 3 dishes from the à la carte menu for 59 euros.
An eclectic public, a lively atmosphere
Le Grand Colbert has always attracted an eclectic clientele: actors, film-makers, models, designers, businessmen, as well as tourists from all over the world and loyal Parisians who have made it their chic cantine. The atmosphere is just like Paris: elegant, cosmopolitan and warm.
Located in the beautiful Galerie Colbert passageway, a stone’s throw from the Palais-Royal, this historic brasserie should be tried at least once by everyone. Lunch before an exhibition, dinner after a play or a simple coffee or tea time in an extraordinary setting, there’s no shortage of occasions.
📍 Location : 2 rue Vivienne – Paris 22 rue Vivienne – Paris 2