MONSIEUR BLEU / PARIS
People go to restaurants for a number of reasons – to celebrate anniversaries or other big events, out of curiosity, to see friends, or simply to not have to cook their own food.
Other times, it’s to experience a different atmosphere than what one’s home can offer; to escape the confines of everyday routines.
Monsieur Bleu is housed on the backside of Palais de Tokyo, right by the Seine and with a nice view of the Eiffel tower. In Paris, it’s considered a place to see and to be seen, regularly frequented by those working in the cultural and creative industries.
The Art Deco-elements of the original building have been further enhanced by Joseph Dirand, lauded interior architect (and with a new book out on Rizzoli).
To create a connection with the verdant terrace outside of the restaurant’s large windows, Dirand wrapped the banquettes in greenish Connemara marble.
Marble is in fact one of Dirand’s signature materials, but often rounded and honed, rather than flashy.
The interiors are in colours of black, white, and green, accompanied by matte gold.
Pendant lamps are suspended from the ceiling, their shape accentuating the verticality of the space.
The plush green velvet sofas create an effective contrast with the cold marble floor, adding an unexpected softness to the otherwise angular room.
Monsieur Bleu is not just one space but several; it includes a bar, lounge, restaurant, terrace, and private dining quarters.
People don’t come here simply to eat (but those who do, often order the truffle pasta, a Monsieur Bleu-classic) but to have Sunday brunch or a Tuesday cocktail.