Seafood glistening, a symphony of scents. Welcome to Brasserie Bofinger. It stands proudly near Place de la Bastille. This is no ordinary brasserie. Brasserie Bofinger is a Parisian institution.
Founded in 1864 by Fréderic Bofinger, an Alsatian from Colmar. Bofinger sought to bring a taste of Alsace to Paris. Initially, it was a small restaurant at 5, rue de la Bastille. Bofinger quickly gained fame for its sauerkraut. But more importantly for serving beer on tap. This was revolutionary for Paris.
Imagine Paris in 1870. Brasserie Bofinger becomes the first to serve draft beer. Alsatians flocked here. Many were carpenters in the Faubourg St Antoine. After Alsace and Lorraine were annexed by Prussia refugees arrived. Aristide Bruant even brought eggs for an omelette.
Step inside Brasserie Bofinger. The decor is amazing. The Art Deco style dates back to 1880. It was transformed between 1919 and 1921. The architect Legay and decorator Mitgen expanded it by acquiring shops. Notice the dome room from 1919. A wisteria-covered sideboard divides the tables.
Look around you at the details of Brasserie Bofinger. There is a wide spiral staircase. There is a large oval dome with floral motifs. Spot the ceramic heron statues by Jérôme Massier. Admire the stained-glass window by Neret and Royer. It represents Gambrinus, the King of beer. Paintings depict Alsatian landscapes. Notice the village scenes in marquetry. Charles Spindler painted the wedding of friend Fritz. Tulip lights illuminate the rooms. Even the urinals feature dolphin heads.
Brasserie Bofinger expanded again in 1930 for the colonial exhibition. The room showcases Alsatian landscapes. Jean-Jacques Waltz, also from Colmar, created these paintings. He was known as Hansi. The room of continents features wooden marquetry. It is adorned with mother-of-pearl by Panzani. He was the nephew of the pasta brand creator.
During World War II, the inscription “Vive la France” was cleverly altered. It became “Vive le vin” to appease the German occupants. The original slogan returned after the war. However, traces of the alteration remain on the marquetry.
Observe the pillars of Brasserie Bofinger. They display emblematic Alsatian dishes. These include kougelhof and foie gras. There is also onion soup and sauerkraut. Storks, symbolic birds of Alsace, are featured in paintings.
Brasserie Bofinger has hosted many famous figures. Eric de Rothschild and Isidore Urtizverea bought it in 1968. Politicians and Parisian celebrities frequented it. François Mitterrand celebrated his presidential victory here in 1981. Designers like Jean-Paul Gautier visited. So did Johnny Hallyday and Michel Polnareff. In 1989, it was listed in the inventory of historical monuments.
Jean-Paul Bucher, founder of the Flo group, acquired Brasserie Bofinger in 1996. The brasserie’s charm endures. It has a revolving door and a stylish bar. There is also a grand staircase. Black leather banquettes add elegance. Bronze sconces illuminate the space. Brassware and mirrors reflect the ambiance. Modernizations have been made, especially in the kitchen.
Before you leave, consider the menu at Brasserie Bofinger. Start with an Americano, a house blend of red Martini and Campari.
The sauerkraut is considered “the best in Paris”. It includes pork knuckle and various sausages. There is also smoked pork belly and boiled potatoes. The Royal sea sauerkraut includes lobster and scallops. It also features haddock and sea bass.
Brasserie Bofinger remains an iconic Parisian destination. Its history, decor, and cuisine offer a unique experience. It is a place where tradition and elegance meet. A place where every detail tells a story.