Le Clown Bar
A monument historique since 1995, this former circus buvette serves creative French bistronomy beneath a whimsical Art Nouveau ceramic frieze of parading clowns.
Le Clown Bar: Historic Bistronomic Gem in Paris's 11th Arrondissement
The cuisine at Le Clown Bar exemplifies modern French bistronomy at its finest, balancing respect for tradition with creative innovation. The kitchen's approach centers on seasonal ingredients prepared with technical precision and presented with contemporary elegance. Each dish reflects a deep understanding of French culinary heritage while embracing the freedom to interpret classics in fresh, exciting ways.
The menu changes regularly to showcase the best available seasonal produce, but certain signature dishes have become synonymous with the restaurant's identity. The Pithiviers de canard stands as a masterpiece of French pastry technique, featuring layers of buttery, flaky pastry encasing rich duck and foie gras in a preparation that honors this classic while elevating it to new heights. The pigeon de Mesquer demonstrates the kitchen's skill with game birds, presenting perfectly roasted meat with a depth of flavor that showcases both the quality of the ingredient and the chef's technical mastery.
The restaurant's commitment to authentic French bistro cooking extends to preparations that many modern establishments have abandoned. Dishes like tartare de veau and cervelle de veau reflect a nose-to-tail philosophy that respects traditional French cuisine while appealing to contemporary diners who appreciate bold, authentic flavors. These offerings sit alongside more accessible options, creating a menu that satisfies both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar comfort.
Vegetarian diners find genuine consideration rather than afterthought options, with dishes like burrata with pear and beetroot demonstrating the same creativity and technical skill applied to meat-based preparations. The kitchen treats vegetables with the respect they deserve, creating compositions that stand as complete dishes rather than simplified versions of meat-centric plates.
Starters typically range from €10-20, showcasing seasonal ingredients in preparations that set the tone for the meal. Main courses, priced around €28-33, represent the heart of the menu, where the kitchen's technical prowess and creative vision shine most brightly. Desserts, starting at €12, provide satisfying conclusions with options like crème brûlée executed with the precision that defines the entire menu.
The cooking style emphasizes clean, direct flavors that allow quality ingredients to speak for themselves. Sauces enhance rather than mask, garnishes serve purpose beyond decoration, and each element on the plate contributes to a cohesive whole. This approach reflects a mature culinary philosophy that values substance over showmanship while never sacrificing visual appeal or creative expression.
The kitchen's commitment to responsible, ethical sourcing ensures that every ingredient meets high standards for quality and sustainability. This philosophy extends beyond mere marketing to inform every purchasing decision, creating a supply chain that supports small producers and respects seasonal rhythms. The result is food that tastes better because it comes from better sources, prepared by cooks who understand that great cuisine begins long before ingredients reach the kitchen.
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Le Clown Bar
Opening Hours | |
|---|---|
| Monday | 12 to 2 PM7 PM to 12 AM |
| Tuesday | 12 to 2 PM7 PM to 12 AM |
| Wednesday | 12 to 2 PM7 PM to 12 AM |
| Thursday | 12 to 2 PM7 PM to 12 AM |
| Friday | 12 to 2 PM7 PM to 12 AM |
| Saturday | 12 to 2 PM7 PM to 12 AM |
| Sunday | 12 to 2 PM7 PM to 12 AM |
Le Clown Bar spotted in France's Top Editorial Picks :
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