The Silencio des Prés is no more — long live Sant Ambroeus! From one chic address to another, the iconic Milanese institution, now cult all the way to New York, has taken over this highly coveted space tucked just behind Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. We headed there for lunch at this brand-new Italian restaurant already frequented by Parisian high society and the city’s most fashionable creatives. The verdict?
A Softly Luxurious Setting
Founded in Milan in 1936, Sant Ambroeus embodies the true Italian art of hospitality, blending iconic restaurants with a refined retail offering of tableware, chocolates and coffee. For its first Parisian outpost — eagerly awaited — the décor was entrusted to Fabrizio Casiraghi. He transformed this sunken space into a chic, yacht-like cocoon, with lacquered wood walls, olive-green velvet banquettes, discreet corners for VIP guests, an elevated table overlooking the room, and an impressive central bar where some stop by for a quick pasta fix.
Open continuously from morning to night, Sant Ambroeus Paris also features a boutique where you can grab coffee, sandwiches and sweet treats to take away. A special mention goes to the maritozzi, already calling our name.
Milan on the Plate
While the starters tasted that day felt rather underwhelming — carpaccio (€34), artichokes (€29) — the pasta dishes more than made up for it. Standout linguine al limone e gamberi rossi come coated in a silky shrimp bisque infused with lemon, cardamom and garlic (€36). Other tempting options include fresh saffron gnocchi with osso buco sauce (€34) and homemade tagliatelle cacio e pepe (€26).
True to Milanese tradition, we couldn’t resist the osso buco, elevated by an original twist: a crispy saffron risotto (€52). For dessert, classics reign supreme with tiramisu (€16) or the principessa cake with almond paste (€16). If you’re lucky enough to win over the chef, ask for Sant Ambroeus’ legendary signature ice cream — delicately orange-flavoured and topped with dried raspberry powder. A shared indulgence that lingers long after the last spoonful.
Aperitivo Time
For aperitivo lovers, the cocktail menu travels far and wide, with signatures like the Montenapoleone (vodka, Italicus, Noilly Prat, Chartreuse, soda – €18) or the Taormina (Patrón blanco, blood orange, Grand Marnier, Campari, Pernod – €18). There’s also a refined Spritz selection, including a limoncello version (€16).
Opening hours
Open continuously Monday to Friday from 7:30am to midnight, and from 8:30am on weekends.
© Matteo Verzini
Also worth discovering: Cassaro’s, the new society hotspot celebrating Milan, and Gloria, Big Mamma’s chic new osteria.
