Apicius

Cuisine

Mathieu Pacaud's refined French gastronomy celebrates tradition through contemporary mastery, with signature dishes that showcase exceptional ingredients and technical precision.

The Vibe

Chic sophistication meets intimate elegance in this refined mansion setting where haute gastronomy unfolds in an atmosphere of understated luxury.

Apicius cultivates an atmosphere of refined elegance that perfectly complements its gastronomic ambitions. The restaurant exudes a chic, sophisticated energy that feels both formal and welcoming, striking the delicate balance between haute cuisine grandeur and genuine warmth. This is a place where you dress for the occasion, where conversations naturally lower to respectful tones, and where every detail contributes to a sense of being somewhere truly special. The intimate character of the dining rooms creates a cozy yet upscale environment, with the historic mansion's architecture providing a sense of timeless elegance. The atmosphere feels distinctly Parisian in its refinement—polished without being stuffy, luxurious without being ostentatious. During evening service, soft lighting enhances the romantic quality of the space, making Apicius an ideal destination for special celebrations and intimate dinners. The presence of the private garden fundamentally transforms the restaurant's atmosphere, particularly during warmer seasons. When dining on the terrace, the vibe shifts to something almost magical—the urban energy of Paris fades away, replaced by the tranquil beauty of this hidden oasis. The garden setting adds a layer of serenity and romance to the experience, creating an unexpected escape within the city. Whether you're seated in the elegant interior dining rooms or on the celebrated terrace, Apicius maintains a consistent sense of occasion, where guests come to mark important moments and indulge in the art of fine dining at its most accomplished.

Decoration

An 18th-century hôtel particulier's historic elegance meets contemporary comfort, with interiors that honor classical French refinement and a legendary garden terrace.

The decoration at Apicius reflects the grandeur of its 18th-century hôtel particulier setting, where historic architectural elements create an atmosphere of timeless Parisian elegance. The interior spaces maintain the mansion's original character, with classical proportions, refined moldings, and architectural details that speak to the building's aristocratic heritage. The design approach respects this historic foundation while incorporating contemporary comfort, creating dining rooms that feel both prestigious and welcoming. The aesthetic is distinctly chic and sophisticated, with a color palette and furnishings that complement the building's classical architecture. The décor emphasizes quality and restraint, allowing the beauty of the space itself to shine while providing an elegant backdrop for the culinary experience. Attention to detail is evident throughout, from the table settings to the lighting design, creating an environment that feels polished and luxurious without overwhelming guests. The crown jewel of Apicius's design is undoubtedly its private garden and terrace, consistently celebrated as one of Paris's most beautiful outdoor dining spaces. This verdant sanctuary offers a striking contrast to the urban surroundings, with lush plantings, mature trees, and thoughtful landscaping creating an oasis-like atmosphere. The terrace design integrates seamlessly with the garden, providing an enchanting setting for outdoor dining that feels both intimate and expansive. The garden's beauty changes with the seasons, offering different perspectives throughout the year while maintaining its essential character as a hidden paradise in the heart of Paris. This exceptional outdoor space elevates Apicius beyond a typical fine dining restaurant, offering guests a truly unique setting that combines natural beauty with refined hospitality.

Uniqueness

An 18th-century mansion with one of Paris's most celebrated garden terraces creates an extraordinary setting for Michelin-starred gastronomy.

What truly distinguishes Apicius from other fine dining establishments in Paris is the exceptional combination of its historic setting and magnificent outdoor space. The 18th-century hôtel particulier provides a sense of grandeur and history that few restaurants can match, transporting guests into a world of Parisian aristocratic elegance. This architectural heritage creates an atmosphere that feels both exclusive and authentic, offering a dining experience that connects to Paris's rich cultural past. The restaurant's private garden and terrace represent its most distinctive feature, consistently recognized as one of the most beautiful outdoor dining spaces in the capital. This verdant sanctuary offers something increasingly rare in Paris—a genuine escape from urban energy into a peaceful, garden setting without leaving the city. The terrace transforms the dining experience, particularly during warmer months, creating an almost magical atmosphere where haute cuisine meets natural beauty. This combination of indoor elegance and outdoor enchantment gives Apicius a unique versatility, offering different experiences depending on the season and seating choice. Chef Mathieu Pacaud's culinary vision adds another layer of distinction. His refined approach to French gastronomy, with signature dishes that have achieved legendary status among food enthusiasts, positions Apicius as a destination for serious gastronomes. The restaurant's flexible menu structure—offering both à la carte and tasting menu options depending on the day—provides variety for returning guests while maintaining consistently high standards.

Insider Tips

Reserve well in advance for terrace seating during spring and summer, and consider the unique tasting menu offered on Saturdays and Mondays.

To make the most of your Apicius experience, advance planning is essential. Reservations are strongly recommended and should be made as early as possible, particularly if you're hoping to dine on the celebrated garden terrace during the warmer months from spring through early autumn. The terrace tables are highly sought after, so when booking, specifically request outdoor seating if that's your preference. You can make reservations through the restaurant's website at restaurant-apicius.com or by calling 01 43 80 19 66. Understanding the menu structure will help you choose the best day for your visit. If you prefer selecting your own dishes and composing your meal, plan to visit Tuesday through Friday when the à la carte menu is available for both lunch and dinner. However, if you want to experience Chef Mathieu Pacaud's full creative vision through a curated progression of dishes, consider booking for Saturday or Monday when the unique tasting menu is offered. This format allows the chef to showcase his most innovative work and seasonal specialties. Timing your visit strategically can enhance your experience. Lunch service runs from 12:15 to 13:30, offering a more relaxed pace and excellent natural light in the garden during warmer months. Dinner service from 19:15 to 21:30 provides a more romantic atmosphere, particularly on the terrace as evening settles in. Note that the restaurant will be closed on December 24th and 25th, 2025, so plan accordingly if you're visiting during the holiday season. Budget appropriately for this luxury dining experience, with prices ranging from €180 to €220 per person excluding beverages. Wine pairings and additional beverages will increase the total, so plan for a significant investment in this gastronomic experience. The restaurant offers valet service, which can be particularly convenient if you're driving, eliminating parking concerns in this busy arrondissement. For those interested in bringing elements of the Apicius experience home, explore the restaurant's clicks & collect service and online boutique, which offer select products. If you're planning a special event, the restaurant accommodates private functions—contact their events team at event@restaurant-apicius.com to discuss possibilities. Finally, dress appropriately for this refined establishment; while there may not be a strict dress code, the elegant atmosphere calls for smart, sophisticated attire that matches the restaurant's upscale character.

Must-try Dishes

Chocolate soufflé, Sweetbread with girolles mushrooms, Crab with caviar