With an unparalleled location in the heart of Paris on the corner of Avenue des Champs-Élysées and Avenue George V, Hôtel Fouquet’s Paris makes one feel at the heart of it all – with frontal views of the Arc de Triomphe and steps from many attractions including some of the best luxury shopping the city is offering.
The iconic Fouquet’s brasserie was founded in 1899 by Louis Fouquet. He called it after his French last name, “Fouquet”, and added the “‘s” to give it a trendy style, although he was born and raised in France. Since 1990, the main room is listed as a historical French monument.
In 1998, Fouquet’s was purchased by Groupe Barrière. Then, the family owned French group created Hotel Barrière Le Fouquet’s Paris by acquiring 6 buildings around the brasserie. Once per year Fouquet’s hosts the traditional gala dinner for the César Awards, French equivalent of the Oscar.
The menu, designed in collaboration with Chef Pierre Gagnaire, continues the tradition of classic French cuisine, including Fouquet’s beef tartare, sole meunière, Simmental beef fillet with Champs-Elysées sauce.For decades, Fouquet’s Paris has been a place where people from the Culture industry would meet.
The historical decor includes mahogany wood-panelling by Jean Royere, Harcourt portraits of notable actors and actresses, and discrete brass plaques which indicate the favourite tables of famous people. Most frequent guests own their silver napkin rings with their name engraved on it.
Groupe Barrière took on a huge task not only creating new rooms and suites but also adding a stunning indoor heated swimming pool, gym and Spa as well a second restaurant, L’Escadrille’s a historical bar recalls its eternal link with the world’s greatest aviators, many of whom can be admired in the black and white portraits on the wood-panelled walls, alongside the majestic propeller. L’Escadrille’s is all-day-dining, with an exceptional breakfast.
Le Bar Marta, which is accessible through a secret door, is an ideal night spot with an exquisite cocktail menu in an exceptional ”cabaret” style interiors, complemented by live DJ sets. For the warmer months, there is also a Le Bar Marta roof-top version, with breathtaking views against the backdrop of Champs-Elysées and Arc de Triomphe. Sharing dishes and snacks are served in both venues.
The interior design is signed by renowned architect Jacques Garcia, who recreated a plush, warm and cozy feel, with a unique sleekness – a WOW factor which is to be found in ever corner of the hotel. All rooms and suites are profoundly comfortable, with luxurious furnishings and finishes – the large marble bathrooms are a unique feature, not to mention the superb bedding – the mattress but also the French soft cotton linen.
With the addition of 19 new Rooms and Signature Suites overlooking the Champs-Elysées in 2019, the hotel has firmly positioned itself among the finest luxury hotels in Paris. The new suites rival the suites of all Palace ranked hotels in Paris, sophisticated, glam and air of prestige. With high ceilings and impeccable soundproofing my Signature Suite has recreated some memorable experiences, especially sitting an watching ”the world go by” on the busy Champs-Elysées – this could not have been more Parisian.
The Harcourt Suite covers an impressive 200m² space and is decorated in grey and gold tones combines the charm of a Parisian apartment with the prestige of Studio Harcourt. The lounge turns into a pop-up studio, transforming the Suite into a real photography studio for an unforgettable shoot.
During my stay, I was quite impressed by the mix of guests with many French patrons, showing how much the property is loved. For generations, Fouquet’s has been a symbol – a true landmark of the city. Over half of those dining at Fouquet’s Paris are locals or even guests staying at other hotels. The layout of the restaurant offers a unique setting at any time of the day, whether one may sit on the outdoor terrace right on the pavement of Champs Elysees or the elegant interiors, perfect for dinner.
Since 1899, Fouquet’s restaurant boasts a classic traditional Parisian brasserie décor and proudly displays its timeless bond with the Arts and Motion Pictures. Renovated in 2017, the timeless spirit of Fouquet’s Paris remains, with subtle touches made by craftsmen to enhance the decor further. Chef Pierre Gagnaire celebrates the resurgence of the famous brasserie by adding his creative Signature to the menu.The dishes perfectly befit the fine décor of the restaurant, which is a listed historical monument.
Beyond the exceptional food and setting of Fouquet’s Paris Restaurant, service is close to perfection. The entire hotel took me by surprise with very high service standards – consistent, reliable and genuine. I was also glad to observe the attention to details but also, for many of the staff how proud they are to be part of the team of such a unique establishment.
Oliver Petcu in Paris
Hotel Barrière Le Fouquet’s Paris – Arc de Trimphe Suite
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