Les Petits Parisiens: the essence of bistronomy in the 14th arrondissement
In a discreet district of Paris’s 14th arrondissement, Les Petits Parisiens appeals to lovers of authentic, generous bistronomic cuisine. Formerly known as La Régalade, this institution is the very cradle of bistronomy, a concept born under the impetus of chef Yves Camdeborde, then enriched by Bruno Doucet.
Today, Arnaud Duhem, already at the helm of Les Petits Princes restaurant in Suresnes, is carrying on this tradition, infusing it with new energy while respecting the DNA of the place.
A place steeped in history and a new vision
The 49 avenue Jean Moulin address has existed as a food business since 1904. It was here that bistronomy took off, initiated by Yves Camdeborde, who wished to combine gastronomic rigor with a convivial bistro atmosphere. Overlooking the sidewalk, La Régalade has long been a haunt for epicureans, delighted by its generous, no-fuss yet technically precise cuisine.
In taking over this Covid institution, Arnaud Duhem is neither seeking to reproduce the past nor to distance himself from it completely. His ambition is to perpetuate the spirit of sharing and pleasure, while adding his own personal touch. His project is based on quality, seasonal cuisine, accessible and warm, supported by a selection of natural, organic and biodynamic wines.
A passionate conductor and an exceptional career
Originally from Toulouse, Arnaud Duhem always knew that his future lay in the hotel and restaurant business. After initial experience at Vanel in Toulouse, he moved to Paris, where he trained alongside such greats as Jean-Louis Costes and Pierre Hermé. He then joined the Ducasse Group, where he specialized in high-end management and service, before becoming Director of Food & Beverage at the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme, then at the Shangri-La Hôtel Paris, also as Director of Food & Beverage when it opened.
In 2012, he decided to strike out on his own, creating Carpe Duhem, a hotel and restaurant consultancy, before realizing his ultimate dream by opening Les Petits Princes in Suresnes. With Les Petits Parisiens, he has come full circle, returning to one of the founding places of bistronomy.
Generous, bold bistro cuisine
At Les Petits Parisiens, the cuisine is comforting and convivial, respecting fresh seasonal produce. Arnaud Duhem favors direct sourcing from producers, guaranteeing optimal quality and exemplary traceability. Dishes are carefully crafted, boldly combining textures and flavors without ever betraying the very essence of bistro cuisine. The value for money remains one of the best in Paris, attracting a loyal clientele made up of neighborhood regulars, epicureans and business lunchtime customers.
The 150-strong wine list features a carefully selected range of natural, organic and biodynamic wines.
An interior design combining modernity and authenticity
In such a symbolic location, it was essential to rethink the space without altering its soul. To achieve this, Arnaud Duhem called on Be Dandy, a design agency that had already worked for Les Petits Princes. The challenge was to preserve the place’s identity while breathing new life into it.
The result is an elegant, uncluttered decor, playing on the sobriety of noble materials and a refined color palette. This minimalist purity allows the kitchen to remain the real star of the show, while creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Luxury codes are not forgotten. Here, the table is set with silver cutlery, cloth napkins and attention to detail.
A haven for lovers of good food
With Les Petits Parisiens, Arnaud Duhem has succeeded in reviving a legendary place without locking it into its past. He infuses it with a contemporary and generous vision of bistronomy, where each dish tells a story, each product has been carefully selected and the experience is above all human and convivial.
Also read: DERRIÈRE: the arty, confidential address for an informal business lunch