Paris Scene: Whats Hot

By Miles Socha

The couture flock will be spoiled for choice with all the new stores, food and exhibits to take in. (...) 

It’s a bit of schlep to get to Thaddaeus Ropac’s outpost in Pantin, a northeast suburb of Paris. But now, in addition to sprawling blue-chip art displays in a vast former foundry, an excellent caprese salad also awaits, or a plate of San Daniele. Last month, the Austrian art dealer christened Café Bleu, which can host more than 40 lunch guests on its colorful wicker chairs and comfy brown banquettes. It was realized by Pierre Pelegry, artistic director of Maxim’s and founder of Ligne Blanche, which produces porcelain tableware, scented candles and table linens in collaboration with the foundations of Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and others.

The art-bedecked Limoges porcelain gives a sense of place to Café Bleu, especially since Ligne Blanche also works with living artists including Georg Baselitz, whose massive paintings of himself and his wife Elke are on display in Pantin until July 26.

The café is set in a separate, cottage-like building and it feels a bit like an escape with its rustic colors, tile floors and cozy atmosphere. “The idea is to do simple food with the best ingredients,” said Pelegry, who has kept Maxim’s roaring for nearly 30 years.

For now, all lunch dishes are cold, but well-priced and tasty, like the sliced salmon and avocado salad for 16 euros. The eatery is also open for breakfast and afternoon tea.