L’Opéra Restaurant
Bringing culinary excellence to Paris Opéra Garnier
Blanc Participations played an active role in the realization and operation of the Opéra Restaurant at Opéra Garnier in Paris. This prestigious project, located in the 9th arrondissement at the intersection of Gluck and Halévy streets, transformed a former storage space into a remarkable dining establishment.
Historical Background:
In 2007, under the direction of Gerard Mortier, plans were initiated to establish a restaurant in the previously unused covered descent, which served as a storage area during restoration work on the building. The idea of creating a restaurant in the Rotonde du Glacier, originally conceived by Charles Garnier, had been considered earlier but was scaled back due to budget constraints. Despite subsequent unrealized projects in the Rotonde des Abonnés and the covered descent in 1973 and 1992, respectively, a fourth restaurant concept finally came to fruition in 2011.
Inauguration and Architectural Design:
On June 27, 2011, after five years of meticulous work led by Opéra Director Nicolas Joel, ministers Pierre Lellouche and Thierry Mariani, and Blanc Participations, the Opéra Restaurant opened its doors. The project’s design, conceived by renowned architect Odile Decq, received the approval of the National Commission for Historic Monuments on June 15, 2009. The inaugural menu was crafted by Michelin two-star chef Christophe Aribert, while Chef Chihiro Yamazaki took over the kitchen in January 2016. In March 2019, the restaurant was acquired by the Paris Society group led by Laurent de Gourcuff, and Julien Chicoisne assumed culinary responsibilities. The restaurant was subsequently renamed « Coco. »
Distinctive Features and Accessibility:
The Opéra Restaurant, with its expansive terrace, is open daily from 7 am to midnight and welcomes guests without the need for a specific ticket. Diners have the opportunity to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner within its three distinct spaces and outdoor terrace. It serves as an ideal venue for pre and post-opera or ballet dining experiences, complementing the performances held in the grand hall of Opéra Garnier. In 2018, the restaurant received a rating of 11/20 (equivalent to one chef’s toque) from the Gault et Millau guide.
Architectural Marvel and Evolution:
The Palais Garnier, or Opéra Garnier, was inaugurated on January 5, 1875. Surprisingly, it took until 2011 for this illustrious opera house to have a restaurant worthy of its name, simply named « Opéra. » Architect Odile Decq’s contemporary vision for the restaurant received approval from the National Commission for Historic Monuments in 2009. The construction took place from 2010 to June 2011. The Opéra Restaurant is located on the ground floor of the pavilion known as the « pavillon des abonnés, » where subscribers alighted from their carriages to enter the hall.
The design concept features a striking freestanding mezzanine that gracefully encircles the supporting pillars without making contact. Resembling a floating cloud, the white envelope of the mezzanine contrasts with the red floors, furniture, and staircase—Odile Decq’s favored color. The façade showcases undulating glass curtains, while a spacious terrace allows guests to admire the opulent building.
Blanc Participations’ Role and Accomplishments:
Blanc Participations actively supported and guided this fantastic project from its inception. We were involved in the response to the public tender, the signing of the public domain occupancy agreement, the execution and supervision of the construction work, and the subsequent operation of the restaurant.
Blanc Participations played a crucial role in bringing the architect Charles Garnier’s vision of a restaurant within Opéra Garnier to life.
Our involvement encompassed various aspects, including project management, financial support, and strategic guidance. Blanc Participations understood the significance of this endeavor and worked diligently to ensure its success. Their expertise and commitment were instrumental in transforming the once-unused space into a remarkable dining destination that harmoniously blends contemporary design with the historic charm of Opéra Garnier.
Through their active participation, Blanc Participations contributed to the realization of Odile Decq’s architectural masterpiece, ensuring that the Opéra Restaurant offers an exceptional culinary experience within the opulent setting of Opéra Garnier. Their dedication to excellence and their active role in the project’s execution and operation showcase their commitment to fostering innovative and culturally significant ventures.
Conclusion:
Blanc Participations played a pivotal role in the development and operation of the Opéra Restaurant, situated within the iconic Opéra Garnier in Paris. From the initial concept to the execution of the architectural design, Blanc Participations actively supported the project, working alongside renowned architects, chefs, and cultural authorities. Through their involvement, they brought the Opéra Restaurant to life, providing an exquisite dining experience that beautifully complements the grandeur of Opéra Garnier. Blanc Participations’ commitment to excellence and their contributions to this remarkable project demonstrate their passion for creating exceptional ventures in the realm of gastronomy and cultural heritage.