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Café Antonia at Le Bristol in Paris is the perfect breakfast or lunch spot, whether as a hotel guest or not, on Paris' chic Rue de Faubourg Saint-Honoré. The restaurant was named after Queen Marie Antoinette, who was called Antonia by her mother. An oil painting of her face adorns the frescoed walls of the restaurant and is illuminated by the most delicate crystal chandeliers. I have enjoyed both breakfast and lunch here and can say that the food and the service are absolutely superb. A perfect little luxurious hideaway - Café Antonia will delight you both in flavors and atmosphere.
The menu and kitchen are helmed by Chef Eric Frechon and represent a lovely mix of Parisian favorites, classics and new takes on international dishes. As a hotel guest or as someone with a reservation, Café Antonia offers a phenomenal breakfast with grand egg dishes, french toast, pancakes and more - each item mouthwatering in both its taste and presentation. This is not the destination to watch your carbohydrate intake as the pastries and bread offered are phenomenal.
Afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the space as well, but, recently I partook in lunch and fell in love with the variety.
The menu was appropriately edited and offered variety, so I chose dishes that spoke to my heart. I started with wild shrimp dim sum and hearts of burrata with Parma ham. I followed appetizers with ricotta and spinach ravioli, and roasted sea bass with candied tomatoes and fennel. Oh, and I can't forget to mention the six oysters that were brought to my table with a glass of champagne ahead of all of this. I was definitely satiated by the end of the meal, but not overly stuffed - the perfect amount for two people sharing.
Café Antonia has a fabulous wine menu (you are in a Palace hotel in Paris, after all), well-crafted cocktail menu and stunning coffee creations to enjoy. But, most importantly, it's the service and atmosphere that make this spot great. Seated just off the lobby area makes for great people watching, but with enough privacy to not be noticed yourself. I absolutely love this space and believe most who pause for a moment on this bustling street, will.
