A quintessential Parisian brasserie on Place de la Bastille, opposite the modern Opera House, Café Français was recently given a complete make-over by an impressive cast: owners Gilbert & Thierry Costes (the brothers behind the famed Hotel Costes and the eponymous restaurant empire) appointed India Mahdavi and graphic designers M/M (Paris) to create a unique setting. Meanwhile, they tapped Michelin-starred chef Jean-François Piege to oversee the cuisine. The dramatic geometry of the black and white marble floors - enhanced with terrazzo inlays - contrasts with the lush blue velvet upholstered armchairs and crimson red leather banquettes. Added to this are antique mirrors, copper leaf gilding in the alcoves and brass finishing. On the ceiling, bright blue skies were painted to give the two dining rooms a Renaissance feel.
