Following their successful venture Le Cornichon, Bertrand Chauveau and Paul Henri have inaugurated Le Poisson Volant, a captivating restaurant and nightclub nestled in the former L’International in Paris’ 11th arrondissement. This innovative space is a collaboration with Claves Architecture, embracing Chinese Art Deco and inspired by Wong Kar-wai’s cinematic allure. With this flying fish theme as a central motif, guests are invited into a world of enchanting experiences.
Experience Elegance at Their Parisian Venue
Chauveau and Henri were driven by a desire to create a dynamic late-night venue that transcends the ordinary. “We envisioned a place where people can enjoy late meals, converse, and dance in an extraordinary setting,” say the founders. They found the perfect venue in L’International, a traditional rock and punk locale near Oberkampf and Belleville. “We want the space to evolve with its guests, to embody freedom and adaptability.”
The pair drew inspiration from London’s Brilliant Corners, a renowned Japanese restaurant and listening bar, and New York’s iconic China Chalet. Locally, they admired the bustling, community-driven environments of restaurants in Belleville and the 13th arrondissement, especially La Bénédiction. Through these influences, their establishment truly captures the spirit of international vibrancy blended with Parisian flair.
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A Culinary Tapestry at Their Paris Destination
With a menu crafted by Chauveau and chef Yanxin Yin, originally from Tsingtao, the culinary offerings feature a blend of traditional and inventive dishes. From pork and chive potstickers to steamed aubergine with chili and herbs, each dish is crafted with precision. The culinary collaboration shines in dishes like wontons paired with pig’s trotter and langoustine tartare.
Architectural Elegance and Artistic Flair
Designed by Laure Gravier and Soizic Fougeront of Claves Architecture, the venue boasts interiors that reflect its vibrant cultural blend. A frontage inspired by classic Chinese restaurants gives way to a Brutalist grid of columns and beams inside. Large mirrors reflect these shapes, adding depth to the space, enhancing the overall ambiance of this unique Parisian spot.
Silver Art Deco patterns lend elegance to walls and structures, while Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired high-backed chairs provide an architectural counterpoint. Central to the room, a patinated steel oval bar stands surrounded by rich, purple-brown hues, patterned carpets, and hand-painted mirrors, all creating a poetic homage to an “imaginary Shanghai by night.”
Descending the staircase, guests encounter a mesmerizing piece by Chinese artist Shuo Hao, leading to a basement club where a concealed room lies behind an aquarium. Echoing the works of Pierre Huyghe, reflections and lighting design merge with the immersive environment akin to the vibrant Paris nightlife.
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Music, Light, and Ambiance
The venue’s ceiling becomes a dazzling canvas thanks to Matière Noire’s luminous panels, shifting from a soothing glow to lively strobes as evening evolves into night. Acoustic excellence has been a priority, achieved in collaboration with FLEiK.
At Le Poisson Volant, music is at the heart of the experience. Chauveau and Henri curate the soundtrack personally, inviting prominent figures from the Parisian music scene to host residencies and DJ sets. The venue is designed to fluidly transition from a dining space to a dynamic nightclub, operating from 7 pm to midnight for dinners and transforming into a nightclub until 5 am, Thursday to Saturday. This establishment is not just a place but an embodiment of vibrant energy and creativity.
Located at 5 Rue Marguerite Moret, 75011 Paris, France, Le Poisson Volant promises an unforgettable journey through sight, sound, and taste.
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Frequently asked questions
What theme does Le Poisson Volant incorporate?
Le Poisson Volant incorporates a flying fish theme as a central motif, blending Chinese Art Deco with cinematic allure inspired by Wong Kar-wai.
What is the architectural design influence at Le Poisson Volant?
The venue has interiors designed by Claves Architecture, featuring a frontage inspired by classic Chinese restaurants and a Brutalist grid of columns and beams. Silver Art Deco patterns, Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired high-backed chairs, and a patinated steel oval bar enhance the space’s ambiance.
What are the dining and nightclub hours at Le Poisson Volant?
Le Poisson Volant operates for dinners from 7 pm to midnight and transforms into a nightclub until 5 am, from Thursday to Saturday.