Temple & Chapon, a taste of New York in the Marais

Walking through the door of 116 rue du Temple is (almost) like taking a one-way ticket to NYC. It's like entering a temple of Parisian elegance, with vast spaces reminiscent of Manhattan.

At Temple & Chapon, aesthetics are in the volumes, in the chic minimalism, in the shades of beige and brown. Large white curtains give the dining room a burst of light and airiness. The elegant detail is reflected in the menu and wine list, illustrated with the beautiful lines of artist Clovis Retif.

We drink well there, too. Like this cocktail with flavors we rarely taste in Paris: gin, zaatar, pandan, and passion fruit. Aptly named, Expédition. The good news? Temple & Chapon also indulges in the Sunday brunch ritual. For example, we try an excellent Scotch egg, served with homemade barbecue sauce that we finish with a spoon, or shrimp tacos, with breaded shrimp. Simply delicious.

And, if you want the true taste of American summers, don't forget the grilled corn on the cob, with spices and maple syrup. Temple & Chapon is the new address of the Experimental group. It's also an American bar, a hotel, a place of rich life in the Marais. Go check it out; it's worth the time and effort.