Parisian Elegance 

Spring and summer are the most beautiful seasons in Paris. Drawing inspiration from the sea, Hotel Plaza Athénée’s La Terrasse Montaigne will open for the summer on May 15 with a new menu showcasing shellfish, oysters and crustaceans. Perched as a landmark on Avenue Montaigne, La Terrasse Montaigne stands out with its red awnings, and invites guest to indulge in the spirit of summer. Set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, the restaurant welcomes guest to dine on a wooden deck, surrounded by vibrant geraniums. Hidden amidst famous French couture houses and tucked behind greenery it has long been a favourite spot to watch the world go by.

This year, La Terrasse Montaigne in introducing a new menu by Jean Imbert, where oysters and seafood are at the forefront, accompanied by champagne. Dishes include lobster claws with caviar, Cap Ferret Tarama flavoured with buckwheat, crab cakes revisited with coral sauce and langoustine spring rolls.

The recipes honour local producers and seasonal ingredients, with the addition of unique twists, such as razor clams in a Ponzu sauce, clams with Jalapeño peppers, and langoustines with aromatic herbs.

In keeping with the casual elegance of the venue, the menu also includes seafood platters, incorporating some of the chef’s favourite pairings such as Cadoret oysters served with thin slices of fresh cucumber and Granny Smith apple and Gillardeau oysters are served with a citrus zest. The menu also includes a selection of Veuve Clicquotchampagnes, including La Grande Dame cuvée, known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The dining experience is minimalist yet traditional, with custom-made table settings adding a final touch to the occasion.

From May 7, Hotel Plaza Athénée will also reopen La Cour Jardin, offering guests the chance to experience a tranquil retreat in the city.

Adorned in greenery and geraniums, the restaurant offers a cozy setting for casual lunches or romantic dinners. Jean Imbert has introduced a summer-inspired menu, focusing on fresh, flavourful dishes that appeal to all palates. Working closely with executive chef Jocelyn Herland, Imbert will source produce from trusted partners such as local market gardeners, fishermen, and farmers. Ingredients will include sun-ripened vegetables sourced from Fermedu Perche, tomatoes from Jacky Mercier, and aubergines, melons, and courgette flowers from Didier Pil’sgarden at Petit-Moulin or Christophe Latour’s Epicerie Fine Latour. The menu showcases a variety of vegetable-based dishes alongside special treats like caviar-infused macaroni. Pastry chef Elisabeth Hot will add her touch to desserts, reflecting the seasonal theme.

The service team, well-versed in Hotel Plaza Athénée’s hospitality, will attend to guests with care and expertise and there will be wine selection to complement the menu. La Cour Jardin provides an urban oasis, inviting guests to relax and enjoy a taste of nature in the heart of Paris.