Francois X.
Yelp
A lovely place in the Marais, within the Hoxton Hotel. I am usually not a big fan of big-hotel restaurants...not because they are necessarily bad, but because the corporate ownership keeps them "Safe." In this context, "Safe" means uncreative, bland, institutional food. Again, not bad...but such restaurants wouldn't usually be my first choice (except in Singapore! ). It turns out Rivié, would be one of those exceptions: fun, creative, delicious, and with great service!
In any case, I met up with a friend here for a light bite and some business discussions. My friend was running late. I informed the staff, and I while I was waiting, the staff was very attentive and brought me complimentary, fresh bread and a carafe of water. They checked-in a few times to see if I wanted anything while I waited. The place was buzzing with activity. In lesser places I likely would have been ignored.
In any case my friend arrived ( blame it on Paris traffic on a rainy day!). She ordered a Cucumber salad w/crumbled crab, and caviar. I ordered Oeuf meurette which is essentially a soft-fried egg tempura style followed by Seiches Snackées or cuttlefish w/chickpeas, arugula, peanuts, black ink juice. Very Creative!!
We wrapped up our late lunch and lingered at the table after an expresso for a few hours.
The atmosphere can get quite loud, but being only two, we were in a quite corner away from the bustle of the larger groups lunching ( of which there were many). In fact almost every group was four or more people from the nearby Techie companies surrounding the area. Silicon Valley?....naw...they weren't wearing Patagonia vests nor hoodies... and were mostly all French....better dressed, and better manners.
No parking. Full, huge bar, various seating areas including patio dining when the weather is good. Underground Cav for large groups/ private functions.
