December 4th, 2007, by Mary Winston Nicklin
Hot Eats in Paris: Mini Palais in the Grand Palais
This summer, a trendy new restaurant opened its doors in a wing of the Grand Palais. And it’s branded MINI– as in, like, um, the car. Sprawling under the arcade’s columns, the restaurant is all about paradox, starting with the name. During the weekends, a DJ spins trendy tracks which vibrate through the classic colonnade. “Mini palais, maxi chic,” the restaurant features innovative small plates and lighter fare from star chef Gilles Choukroun (of Michelin-starred Angl’Opera Restaurant). Inside, you’ll find Baccarat light fixtures and a cool, loungy vibe. AdAge explains that the MINI branding is subtle: the neon sign in the lobby, the MINI logo on the menu and on the black t-shirts worn by staff, and a couple of Union Jacks emblazoned behind the bar.
I haven’t made it to the Mini Palais restaurant yet, though I’m certainly looking forward to doing so next time I make it to Paris, especially after seeing it made JuliB.com’s best of 2007 list. The Grand Palais is such a beautiful building (I saw the Anselm Keifer instillation there last spring); I imagine it’s a divine place to dine.