The latest buzz in Paris is the Italian restaurant Daroco and its adjacent cocktail bar Danico. Reason for me to go and check it out. Although I didn’t eat there, I can vouch for their delicious cocktails, which I did sample. But what really sold me, was the interior design of this tratorria and cocktail bar. Daroco is located in the former flagship store of Jean Paul Gautier, neighbouring the gorgeous historical shopping arcade ‘Gallerie Vivienne and opposite of the National Library of France. The 180-seat Italian high-end trattoria from Alexandre Giesbert and Julien Ross serves pastas and pizzas, and Italian inspired dishes. The cocktails are by mixologist Nico de Soto.
The interior design of Daroco
The former Jean Pault Gautier store was refurbished by Hors Limites Architecture and interior designers Francesca Errico and Olivier Delannoy. The trendy decor marvels everyone who steps inside. It is bright, breezy and due to its mirrored ceiling as a trompe d’oeuil the 6 meters high ceiling is amplified. The mirrored ceiling and floor to ceiling windows make the space a playground for the light streaming in. On one side large planters hang over velvet benches against a bare brick wall. Green marble tables are combined with stylish wicker chairs. The oversized hand-blown murano glass lamps are real eye-catchers that connect the two levels of the restaurant. The upper level is more intimate and features wooden chairs on a banana leaf carpet.
A wink to Jean Paul Gautier
Daroco’s staff all wear nautical striped shirts which is a wink to the former function of the building; the JP Gaultier flagship store. Unbelievable that Gaultier grew out of this space.
Danico Cocktail Bar
Hidden in the back is the Danico cocktail bar. I loved the velvet ochre yellow bar stools. The small space is very stylish with a black marble bar counter and brass lamps.
Daroco and Danico – 6 Rue de Vivienne
metrostation: Bourse or Palais Royal
Daroco is open from 12 p.m – 12 a.m. lunch + dinner
