Buddha-Bar Paris
Born from the visionary imagination of its founder Raymond Visan (the French-Romanian restaurateur responsible for the original and very famous Barfly in Paris), this bar, restaurant, hotel franchise has become a bonafide institution and a household name, renowned — not just in Paris, but worldwide — for its particular brand of nightlife, which spans from Marrakech to Budapest; Moscow to Mexico City.
Since its creation in 1996, the original Buddha-Bar in the City of Light has been a forerunner for what it means to be a true lifestyle concept — and for more than 20 years, has been steadily growing and spreading its name and positive energy around the world, making its mark via restaurants, hotels, spas, beauty care, and music.
Its outpost on the ultra-chic Rue Faubourg St Honoré still rules supreme above all though — with a majestic and dedicated space, as big and spectacular as a movie set — 1000sqm2 in total, and spread over three levels.
On entry, patrons are met by a two-story dining area dominated by a large statue of Buddha — almost 4-meters high — which has welcomed yuppies, businessmen and affluent jetsetters from far and wide over the years; successfully luring them back time-after-time with open arms and its hedonistic vibe embodied by DJ-sets of eclectic, avant-garde music.
Below, the alcoves encircling the mezzanine and the carved bar in the shape of a dragon offer those who gather there an intimate oasis where they can see without being seen; a welcome escape where they can savor a moment of relaxation, sipping their poison of choice among the diffused glow of candles.
Above, gigantic colonial red velvet chandeliers embroidered with golden threads loom large, overlooking the restaurant which comes alive around clusters of close-knit tables and a warm and discreet red lounge, for a convivial dinner.
On the plate, a Pacific-Rim menu with Pan-Asian, Californian and European influences delights, with dishes which combine fresh products, subtle flavors and spices from around the world with a sharing concept which perfectly links back to its brand.
To boot, the friendly and warm atmosphere is perfectly catered to here by its professional, smiling staff, who infuse a breezy sense of serenity throughout the place, all sublimated by an elegant and intoxicating musical selection distilled by its resident DJs.
In essence: A mellow trip to a posh, but funky place which has stood the test of time...
Perfect for: A big party with your international friends or off-the-clock company events.
What to order: Treat yourself (and guests) to the Pekin Duck Salad, their special rolls and a couple bottles of Dom ;)
Address: 8-12 Rue Boissy d'Anglas, 75008 Paris (Google Maps)
Trading hours: Monday - Saturday from 6pm to 2am // Sunday from 12pm to 4pm / 6pm to 2am
Website: https://www.buddhabar.com/
Insta: @buddhabarparis
