Assouline Lapérouse: A Parisian Icon Since 1766

Founded in 1766 in a Parisian hôtel particulier on the banks of the Seine, Lapérouse is one of the city’s oldest restaurants. In the nineteenth century, it was frequented by writers and artists such as Zola, Musset, Hugo, Balzac, Proust, Rodin, Colette, and Picasso, and was also known as a discreet meeting place for mistresses and courtesans. In 2018, French interior designer Laura Gonzalez completely reimagined Lapérouse, building on its warm Baroque interior, rich past, and singular legacy.

Today, the restaurant occupies a unique place in Parisian life: By day, French writer Frédéric Beigbeder hosts his literary radio show there, welcoming the most celebrated contemporary authors; by night, modern icons such as Nicole Kidman, Kim Kardashian, Madonna, and Leonardo DiCaprio gather to revel in its legendary atmosphere. Every evening, one delights in guessing what stirs within the secret hideaways of Lapérouse’s salons.

From its remarkable wine cellar to its intimate rooms and wild fashion-show after-parties, the story of Lapérouse is endlessly fascinating, as recounted by multi-award-winning writer Frédéric Beigbeder. In Lapérouse: A Parisian Icon Since 1766, the ghosts of great artists meet the icons of today. It is never too late for a party. It is always a night to remember.