Villa Spicy
A culinary haven near Champs-Élysées
In 1968, inspired by a concept he encountered in the United States of restaurants specializing in red meat, Christian Guignard launched the very first Hippopotamus grill-restaurant in Paris, located at 6 avenue Franklin-Roosevelt. In 1992, the Hippopotamus restaurants were acquired by the Groupe Flo, prompting Christian Guignard to seek new themes. He partnered with Maïté Marquebieille, Jacki Dudemaine, and Chef Hervé Dos Santos to open L’Appart, followed by Spicy a few years later, situated nearby at 8 avenue Franklin Roosevelt, on December 15, 1997.
The Origins of Spicy Restaurant :
Despite its Anglo-Saxon name, Spicy was originally a restaurant focused on rotisserie and white meats. In its literal sense, Spicy translates to « spiced. » Here, it evokes warmth, color, ambiance, decor, welcoming atmosphere, and a vibrant style. The term represents a dynamic experience rather than excessively spicy flavors. The cuisine at Spicy features mild spices carefully combined with aromatic herbs. Dill, ginger, cumin, Szechuan pepper, and pink berries are some of the spices used to introduce customers to delightful and inviting flavors. Spicy offers a culinary experience tailored to contemporary tastes.
Ambiance and Decor :
The light wood and warm colors in the restaurant’s decor harmonize with the glow of the rotisseries, enhancing the cozy atmosphere. This triple signature ambiance is the result of the collaboration between Robert Dupuch, François Wapler, and Miguel Cancio-Martins, renowned architects and decorators known for their work on popular Parisian establishments such as Quai Ouest, Buddha Bar, Barfly, and L’Appart.
Ownership and Continuity :
On September 1, 2001, Spicy was taken over by Jean-Philippe and Pierre-François Blanc. The menu remains delicious and tantalizing. The restaurant’s wine cellar was one of the first in France to offer a wide selection of foreign wines.
Villa Spicy :
Afterward, Spicy transformed into Villa Spicy, becoming one of the beloved culinary destinations in Paris. It became a favorite spot for executives from Champs-Élysées, art gallery owners from Avenue Matignon, and anyone who appreciated the lively ambiance and warm hospitality found here.
Conclusion :
The journey of Spicy Restaurant, situated near Champs-Élysées, began with Christian Guignard’s passion for introducing a unique dining experience to Paris. Over the years, it evolved into a renowned establishment that combined a delightful menu featuring subtly spiced dishes with a cozy and inviting atmosphere.