Rue du Vertbois

Cobblestones whisper secrets on the Rue du Vertbois. They tell tales of a street once bustling with bakers, butchers, and fishmongers. Rue du Vertbois was a heart of commerce. Now, it pulses with a different energy. A millionaire named Cédric Naudon dreamed of reviving this historic Parisian street. He envisioned a gourmet and design destination, nicknamed “La Jeune Rue,” or “The Young Street.” Rue du Vertbois was to be reborn. Naudon’s vision extended beyond just restaurants. He sought to bring back the traditional trades that once defined the area. Top designers were commissioned to create unique interiors for each establishment. Imagine a seafood store designed by Tom Dixon, a tapas bar by Jasper Morrison, and an Italian restaurant by Patricia Urquiola. A speakeasy by Ingo Maurer, a butcher shop by Michele De Lucchi, and a Korean street-food restaurant by Paola Navone were also planned. Rue du Vertbois was to be a feast for the senses. Naudon’s ambition encompassed over forty locations along Rue du Vertbois and the neighboring streets of Volta and Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth. He even planned a contemporary art gallery and a cinema. This bohemian locale was poised for a transformation. Naudon promised ethically sourced products at reasonable prices, directly from farms. He aimed to create jobs and revitalize the neighborhood. However, reality proved more challenging than the dream. Many of the planned businesses never materialized. Rue du Vertbois remains a mix of old and new, a testament to its resilient spirit. While not fully realized, Naudon’s vision left its mark. The street continues to evolve, a blend of history, ambition, and the enduring charm of Paris.