In Paris’s chic 8th arrondissement, you’ll find a festive restaurant that’s not to be missed: Chez Gala! Since it opened, the place has been packed, and it’s easy to see why. At Paris Secret, we pushed open the doors of this bewitching establishment and dined in its velvets. Let’s take a look back.
Chez Gala, the Mediterranean in Paris
Pushing open the doors of Chez Gala opens up a whole new world. Immediately, it’s like a journey, a change of scenery. A subdued atmosphere, a beautiful décor, the scent of incense… Chez Gala offers us a one-way ticket to the South. In the dining room, the large white-tablecloth tables, the hushed ambience and the disco ball in the ceiling remind us of the trendy receptions of the 70s, nostalgic as we are.
Two services and two atmospheres in this Mediterranean home
Like many festive restaurants, Chez Gala offers two services. During the first service, starting at 7.45pm, Parisians can sit down in a hushed atmosphere and chat to their heart’s content. A dinner with live music, under the piano notes of Chez Gala’s excellent musician. From 10.45pm, the mood changes! The second service is more rhythmic, more conducive to partying than conversation. The lights dim a little more, and we eat to the music. At the turntables, the DJ alternates between current music and hits from the 70s and 80s, to everyone’s delight.
To start the meal, what could be better than a good cocktail, made with care by a Chez Gala bartender? At Paris Secret, we opted for the caliente Spicy Fire, made with Eminente rum, passion fruit and chili pepper. We also went for the Pink Revolution, with its bewitching notes of hibiscus, lime and rosewater Espuma. A real favorite for these sharp, tasty cocktails, which promise a culinary voyage of quality.
Fragrant, sun-kissed dishes, a party atmosphere and a disco hammam table in the basement for your private dinners.
While the scent of spices makes our mouths water, for starters we’re tempted by the crispy soft-boiled egg and its excellent artichoke mousseline, which we highly recommend. We also opt for the poached lobster with citrus fruits and its broth, a starter that transports our senses to the seaside. Finally, it’s time for the main course. We try the hazelnut-crusted roasted scallops, and fall head over heels for the citrus-salted roast rack of lamb, with its ultra-fragrant sauce. What’s more, if you’re coming with a group, don’t hesitate to opt for the ultra-melting braised shoulder of lamb lacquered with honey and thyme, the scent of which is the talk of the table.
As the evening progresses, the chill atmosphere becomes more and more frenzied. Tables are pushed back and people get up from their chairs to dance, toast and spin napkins. It’s like being on one of Greece’s most beautiful summer beaches, but with a touch of Parisian chic. A chic, friendly atmosphere, cutting-edge cocktails and dishes that smell of sunshine… Chez Gala has it all! The perfect place to dine with friends, party and travel to the Mediterranean, without leaving the capital.
And pssst:
In the basement of Chez Gala is a hidden, ultra-confidential spot. Called Disco Hammam, this oriental-style space will be the perfect place to hold one of your events. A huge table illuminated by candles, the promise of an ultra VIP festive moment, hidden from view.
Restaurant festif “Chez Gala”, 6 rue Arsène Houssaye, 75 008 Paris – Wednesday to Saturday, 7.45pm to 2am – Reservations essential.