For nearly 20 years, the world’s most Michelin-starred female chef had been nursing a fixed idea: opening her own bar inspired by the highly sophisticated Japanese models she discovered during a trip in 2008. This autumn, Anne-Sophie Pic is making waves with the opening of Utopic, a truly unique venue located at the foot of the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain. Spoiler alert: we loved everything about it.
The ultimate playground
For this new expression of her impeccable taste, Anne-Sophie Pic, supported by the talents of her head bartender Maël Jego, is taking on mixology, turning it into a genuine creative playground. At Utopic, the atmosphere is immediately sophisticated, inspired by Japan’s B Bars, whose universe is built entirely around the counter and pays attention to every detail, from the music and lighting to the precision of every movement. Leather banquettes, an alluring bar, high stools at the counter, flattering light streaming through immense windows overlooking the Louvre: we can already picture ourselves inviting our other half for a romantic date that is bound to be a success.
On the menu, 22 cocktails translate the chef’s aromatic universe into liquid form, with fans sure to recognize a few references to her three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Valence. Her famous philosophy of Imprégnation is present, along with her penchant for unexpected aromatic pairings: botanicals, spices, infusions, distillations, fermentations and spirits interact in compositions that play with textures and sequences. Le Versant, for example, combines Banon cheese, citron and green Chartreuse, echoing the famous Berlingots at Restaurant Pic*** (€25). Even more intriguing, Clair-obscur brings together apple, kuromame and The Macallan 12 Year Old Double Cask (€28). And for those who prefer to play it safe, several creations are also available as alcohol-free mirror versions (€15).
On the plates, devilishly chic finger food comes to accompany the drinks, including a moreish Croq’Utopic made with truffle-infused ham and smoked vanilla (€19), snail cromesquis with tarragon and a molten black garlic centre (€16), an entirely black savoury waffle with avocado and tarama (€24), and pretty golden panisses served with tartar sauce (€12). Finally, we give in to the irresistible matcha cheesecake (€23), as well as the lovely madeleines served with vanilla ice cream (€14). A flawless performance, we tell you…
Open daily from 5pm to 1am.
© epicurian
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