Black Calavados

BC
40, avenue Pierre 1er de Serbie, 8th
M° Alma-Marceau or George V
Tel 01 47 20 77 77

www.blackcalavados.com

Immortalized in a Gainsbourg song, this legendary 70s restaurant and bar has been reincarnated as “BC” by its new owners (which include grunge pioneer Chris Cornell of Soundgarden and DJ Nick Blast) with a sexy décor of black velvet and stainless steel. As the host of Galliano’s after-show party during Fashion Week, it immediately established itself as the HQ of entertainment industry types, with vodka cocktails, hard rock music, and a tight gang of regulars. There's no sign, so just look for a large black door closely guarded by a suited doorman. (the doorway to the right leads to the restaurant upstairs, which is separate from the bar). Unless you look particularly fashionable (and preferably female or accompanied by one), it will be very difficult to get in without already knowing someone inside. Not just because it's the coolest place in town at the moment, but also because it can only fit a small number of people inside at a time.

There are only a few tables, and you'll need to reserve a bottle of something to be able to stay there once it gets crowded (Champagne at a mere €220/bottle). Don't bother showing up before 11pm unless you want to see what it looks like empty. The clientele are a mix of youngish hipsters from the chic 'burbs, wearing tight black jeans and pointy boots, and tattoo'd, long hair rockers wearing concert tee-shirts. There's a mix of ages and nationalities. I've seen Monsieur Cornell and Lionardo DiCaprio there on recent visits. Needless to say, the alternative rock playlist is a perfect respite from the pop/electro/hip-hop heard everywhere else.

Update on Tuesday, January 16, 2007 by Heather

Read the blog entry about my Saturday night visit to the BC here (go to Act VI).

Update on Thursday, December 11, 2008 by Heather

The restaurant of BC was recently redone with more of a lounge atmosphere, low tables and black leather sofas, bar seating. There is still food, but it's more of a bar menu with gourmet snacking and light meals. A great place to go for drinks and light eating in a sexy, relaxed atmosphere.