Tucked away in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Orson is already making serious waves on the Paris dining scene. Here, fire sets the rhythm, turning every dish into a full-on sensory experience. In a softly lit, intimate setting, everything revolves around warmth—both in the atmosphere and on the plate—delivering bold flavors from the very first bite…
A Bold Minimalist Interior
A gentle warmth fills two cosy dining rooms with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic: dark wood tables, an ultra-modern bar, metallic textures, and low candlelight… The vibe feels straight out of New York—this is a place to experience, not just admire. All eyes are drawn to the open kitchen at the back, where dancing flames and crackling fire create a captivating live show.
In the kitchen, chef Esu Lee—recently awarded a Bib Gourmand for his other spot Jip on rue de la Roquette—champions a cuisine driven by fire, fermentation, and contrast, blending Korean influences with top-quality European ingredients.
Bold, Flavor-Packed Plates
From the very first dishes, the tone is set. Briny, smoky, and perfectly balanced, the oyster—elevated with a smoked namjim oil sauce—makes a striking opening (€5). Then comes the unforgettable “Madame Butterfly”: a shrimp toast with Sichuan mayo, a perfectly balanced bite you won’t forget anytime soon (€14). Around us, every table seems to order the sashimi of the day, featuring fish aged for five days, served with fermented plum sauce and seaweed leaves so you can build your own bites (€24).
The wood fire takes center stage with perfectly tender lamb chops, infused with a divine smoky flavor and paired with wild garlic and even a passion fruit on the side (€40). An unexpected yet spot-on combination.
The real standout? The spider crab tteokbokki—meltingly tender and topped with a Parmesan espuma you’ll want to finish with your fingers (€48). A dish so good, it alone justifies a return visit. Pair it with a side of BBQ fried rice with scallops, oyster mushrooms, and kumquat, continuing that signature smoky-sweet balance (€11).
Next-Level Desserts
For dessert, Orson may well serve one of the best millefeuille in Paris, elevated with hay-smoked vanilla, salted butter caramel, and a hint of orange blossom—pure indulgence (€22). The chocolate mousse, meanwhile, is beautifully offset by the subtle sweetness of a hidden miso ice cream underneath (€16).
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 7pm to 11:30pm.
© Mickaël A. Bandassak - Lucas Chombart
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