Terrace of the Notre Café restaurant, © Anaïs Costet
No, the Marais is not only dedicated to fashion and tourism! Let's not forget that the 3rd and 4th also value mutual aid and beautiful solidarity projects. A new address, at very affordable prices and located in the former Minimes barracks, provides proof of this. It responds to the sweet, very inclusive name of “Our café”.
© Anaïs Costet
Between tea room and cafeteria, this wonderful associative place owes a lot to Laurence Melloul-Piou, director of the medical educational institute (located right next door, rue Saint-Gilles) who has dedicated herself to autistic people for fourteen years.
The originality of “Our Café”? Here, young autistic people, aged 12 to 18, work in the kitchen and serve in the dining room. A way to prepare for the professional world these future adults who struggle with what we call 'pervasive developmental disorders' (PDD).
© Anaïs Costet
It's better to know this in advance so as not to be surprised: autistic people don't necessarily respond to smiles, don't always look customers in the eyes, and often avoid social interactions. But rest assured: the heart is in it! That's not all.
In addition to the satisfaction of participating in an intelligent project, customers are also rewarded on the plate, where homemade cuisine is served, fresh, imaginative and tasty.
Gazpacho, croque-monsieur, salad with quinoa and crunchy vegetables, white cheese with honey and red fruits, © Anaïs Costet
We like: croque-monsieur, salad with quinoa and crunchy vegetables (according to a recipe given personally by Alain Ducasse), gazpacho, cookies, etc. The menu is short and the prices are friendly: €12 starter-main course-dessert.
With reflect, located at 11 rue Braque, which employs young adults with Down syndrome, “Our café” confirms the inclusive vocation of the Marais.
Our coffee
Minimes Barracks, 75003 Paris
Entrances rue de Béarn and rue des Tournelles, 75003 Paris
Tuesday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 15:00 p.m.
Text: Katia Barillot
19.07.21
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