When Le Patio launched it quickly became a celeb favourite not only for its flexible opening hours and alternative ways of eating, but also because owner Valérie Saas-Lovici is a film producer with an A-list address book. We're not naming names, because Le Patio is a discreet address across from the Garnier Opera House and opposite the W Hotel. Saas-Lovici who, not like you and I, sees life as a series of movies, decors and costumes, decided she needed a restaurant that would be like going to the movies without having to sit in the dark for two hours, although there is a screening room/art gallery in the basement and Le Cantinetta, the little bistro next door, is punctuated with posters from Saas-Lovici's favourite films and often with the actors who star in them. Le Patio, a listed Haussmann building, divides into roughly three areas around a bucolic tree-lined courtyard which is covered in winter, so it's possible to eat dans le jardin all year round. You won't see the celebs; they're seated discreetly behind giant olive trees. The menu, created with passion, is based on Italian and Corsican specialities by Florentine chef. Velouté de tomates légèrement acidulé avec une cuillère de ricotta, accompagné d'une petite verrine de légumes croquantes. Follow with seiches (cuttlefish) which recall lunches and dinners enjoyed around the port at Ajaccio. Wines include the fabulous Clos Canarelli reds and whites (39€); now you're really on vacation. Best book for lunch and if you arrive late, no problem, there's a Spuntino Veloce Della Cantinetta menu to choose from. Gaspacho, Bruschetta, Focaccia, Assortiment de charcuterie Corse, San Daniele. Assiette de fromages Corses et Italiens affinés, confiture de poivron. And a menu from 18hrs before the Opera, served until 23hours, after the Opera. Bear in mind that Le Patio is not just a restaurant, it's another very different and enjoyable way of life and while there you're starring in your own movie. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
