Restaurant Review: Le Clarence, Avenue Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Paris in France

Set within the walls of one of Paris’ most elegant 19th-century mansions is Le Clarence, a fine-dining restaurant and wine boutique from one of France’s most critically acclaimed wine estates Domaine Clarence Dillon – under the leadership of two Michelin starred chef Christophe Pelé.

Opening back in 2015, Le Clarence is a place of gastronomic excellence continually drawing in both new and returning gourmet aficionados, just moments from the iconic Champs Elysées. Led by CEO Prince Robert of Luxembourg who was responsible for the full renovation of the elegant 19th-century building, Le Clarence highlights the unprecedented expertise of Domaine Clarence Dillon – one of the most significant and historical wine companies owning Bordeaux First Growth, Château Haut-Brion, Château La Mission Haut-Brion, Saint- Émilion’s Château Quintus and Clarendelle.

Unreservedly French, Christophe Pelé’s kitchen utilises seasonal produce that respects the best of famous French gastronomy. Working closely to the discerning personal tastes of many of his returning diners, Christophe and his team tailor their dishes to each guest with a menu that is inspired and modern in a setting that echoes yesteryear. Awarded with two Michelin stars in both the 2017 and 2018 Michelin Guide, it’s clear that Le Clarence is executing their craft to an exceptional level leading with Christophe’s signature culinary style of marrying produce from the land and sea, brilliantly matched with their world-class wine bin, taken from the wine boutique downstairs.

A procession of dishes dances freely and confidently from the land and sea throughout our personalised ‘Déjeuner du Jeudi’ menu. Ingredients woven seemingly include the classic escargot, red mullet, an ingenious scallop and chorizo combination before an impressive joint of blushing lamb paired revealed under a gleaming silver trolley. Dishes were further elevated with wine parings that included a 1995 Pessac-Léognan, Château Haut-Brion and a 2015 Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Château Quintus.

Leading the way for world-class gourmet experiences, Le Clarence within its private mansion located in the luxurious heart of the “golden triangle” has made a prevalent mark on the industry in the last five years since opening. With Christophe’s unique approach that has dazzled the world of gastronomy with his cuisine that is passionate and dissident, presented within a juxtaposed setting of tradition – Le Clarence was awarded two Michelin stars only one year after the restaurant’s official opening.

With a locally-focused culinary heritage having worked in the Parisian neighbourhood’s finest establishments such as Ledoyen, Lasserre, Pierre Gagnaire, Le Bristol and Le Royal Monceau – Christophe’s naturally reserved disposition kept him protected from the glare of the spotlight, that is now recognised on a global scale. Publishing his visionary recipes, it is thought for the very first time, is the hardback book which has been created ‘Christophe Pelé – Le Clarence’. Offering an insight into the ingenious cuisine of the twice Michelin-starred chef, the book which was published on 2nd October 2019 tells the story and narrative of how Le Clarence became to be one of the best restaurants in Paris.

Diners of the restaurant upstairs are openly invited to visit La Clarence’s opulent Château wine boutique La Cave du Château that is concealed within the buildings historic vaulted cellar. A remarkable selection of 250 winegrowers curated by Damien de Gironde – director of La Cave du Château, the portfolio of 2,400 fine wines and champagnes include the finest French spirits and aperitifs alongside other rare bottles, old vintages, famous labels, secret flacons and large format bottles. Damien and his team of multilingual sommeliers hold a plethora of knowledge, assisting customers in developing their ideal cellar, recommending wine and food pairings alongside regular tastings that showcase the incredible diversity of the French terroirs.