A legendary institution on the Grands Boulevards, Café de la Paix offers a timeless gastronomic experience. This summer, it revisits its emblematic dessert in an iced version.
Since its inauguration in 1862, at the same time as the neighboring Grand Hôtel, the Café de la Paix has established itself as one of the capital’s most prestigious addresses. Located on the corner of Boulevard des Capucines and Place de l’Opéra, it has welcomed writers, dancers and actors, from Victor Hugo to Serge Lifar and Hemingway. Listed as a historical monument, its Napoleon III decor, restored by Pierre-Yves Rochon, immediately immerses you in the refined atmosphere of the Belle Époque.
Today, under the direction of Chef Laurent André, the Café de la Paix kitchen showcases French culinary art at its most timeless: onion soup au gratin, sole meunière, guéridon-cut meats, a scaling bench open most of the year… As for sweets, two classics stand out: the mille-feuille caramelized à la minute and theOpéra, which has become a veritable signature of the house over the years.
L’Opéra glacé, a summer tribute
To celebrate the 150th anniversary of its historic neighbor, the Palais Garnier, Café de la Paix unveils an exclusive creation:Opéra glacé. Inspired by the iconic cake, this dessert takes its original structure and adds a touch of summer freshness.
The recipe combines a soft chocolate sponge cake soaked in coffee syrup, layers of chocolate ice cream, a scoop of coffee ice cream, a gourmet crunch and, as a finishing touch, a piece of chocolate marbled in the house colors. To be enjoyed on a terrace bathed in light, or as a sweet treat after lunch, this ice cream variation is priced at €16.
An integral part of InterContinental Paris Le Grand
It’s impossible to talk about Café de la Paix without mentioning its setting: theInterContinental Paris Le Grand. Completely renovated in 2021, this 458-room and suite palace radiates French style opposite the Opéra Garnier. With its listed Salon Opéra, luminous Verrière and spectacular suites overlooking the monument, the hotel remains a benchmark of Parisian luxury. A direct link between tradition and modernity, it embodies the continuity of this heritage.
Practical info:
📍 Café de la Paix, 5 place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris
📞 01 40 07 36 36 – cafedelapaix.fr
🍴 Restaurant: emblematic dishes and Parisian brasserie
🍨 Dessert: Iced Opera, €16, to enjoy all summer long.
Also read: 3 pretty tables to relax with friends in the 17ᵉ arrondissement
Dining and Cooking