Les Foodies: The hot new address in the Marais

There’s always a friendly welcome in store at Les Foodies

Photos: (C) Les Foodies 

Internationally renowned for its thriving restaurant scene, the Marais often leads the way in Paris foodie trends – so we always sit up and take notice when a new place opens its doors. Thus, we were particularly excited about the recent arrival of Les Foodies, located on a picturesque corner of square Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, in the 4th arrondissement.

Describing themselves as “the first conceptual néobistrot in Paris combining the freshness of Mediterranean cuisine with Asian influences and gastronomic techniques”, there certainly seems to be a bit of a buzz about this place.

Formed by a group of friends who studied together at the city’s renowned cookery school, Le Cordon Bleu, they were keen to create a modern restaurant that would combine their shared vision – and Les Foodies is the exciting result.

At the helm is chef Davide Galloni, who has both Thai and Italian origins, and seamlessly combines Asian flavours with traditional Italian technicals. Highly experienced, having spent some 15 years cooking across four continents, he practises international gastronomy with his own particular flair. Both young and passionate, he is an adventurous cook who is constantly in search of new culinary experiments.

One of the beautifully presented dishes

The changing seasonal menu should, however, include something for most tastes, with examples including Spring Salad (10€), Fettuccine with Cuttlefish (18€), Penang-style Leg of Guinea Fowl (24€), Grilled Squid (24€) and Cod in Black Crust (28€). Plus, there is also their popular Sunday brunch with three different options – Le Croissant (19€), Le Foodies (22€) and Le Sunday Roast (22€).

All exquisitely presented, the colourful dishes also segue perfectly with the creative decor – which itself combines Parisian, Mediterranean and Asian influences. We also like the inspired touch of the Mondrian-motif squares.

The stylish interior of Les Foodies

In summary then, this recent addition to the Marais looks like a pretty interesting proposition all round. Just be sure to bag a table before everyone else does.

• Les Foodies, 6-8 square Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004 Paris. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 12noon-2.30pm and 7.30-11pm; Saturday: 12noon-3pm and 7.30-11pm; Sunday: 12noon-4pm. Tel: +33 (0)9 82 42 73 09