Palace-worthy pasta? gourmet street food is taking bordeaux by storm!
A surprising fusion: luxury meets fast food
Get ready, Bordeaux! A revolutionary new concept has landed at Bordeaux-Lac's shopping center, and it's changing the game for quick and delicious eats. Paaates isn't your average pasta joint. It's a bold experiment blending the elegance of palace cuisine with the speed and affordability of street food—all spearheaded by a celebrated Michelin-starred chef. Forget everything you thought you knew about a lunchtime rush; this is a culinary experience unlike any other.
The brains behind the pasta power
The venture is the brainchild of two local entrepreneurs, Boris Allain and Laurent Piffard, known for their successful Addict coiffure salon chain. They teamed up with the renowned chef Simone Zanoni, whose impressive resume includes stints at prestigious establishments like the Hôtel George V in Paris and La Mamounia in Marrakech. The collaboration was surprisingly swift, with Zanoni joining the project after just two days!
A menu that's both simple and sublime
Don't expect a sprawling, overwhelming menu. Paaates keeps it concise and focused, offering just 12 hot pasta dishes and 4 cold options. You'll find familiar favorites like bolognese alongside more adventurous creations, such as pasta paired with braised lamb. Prices are surprisingly reasonable, ranging from €9.90 to €13.90 for a single dish, with a complete meal (including a drink and dessert) costing an additional €5. Accessibility without sacrificing quality—that’s the Paaates promise.
Early buzz and big ambitions
Since opening in early November, Paaates has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly during lunchtime service. The convenient location within the shopping center's gallery ensures a steady flow of hungry customers. The founders have ambitious plans for the future, aiming to expand the brand throughout the Bordeaux metropolitan area with a franchise model, mirroring the success of popular chains like Pitaya or Eat Salad. Could this be the next big thing in fast-casual dining?
What you need to know before you go
Planning a lunchtime visit? Arrive shortly after opening to avoid the midday rush, which peaks around 1:30 pm. Evenings are more relaxed, with shorter wait times. Be prepared for generous portions and dishes bursting with flavor, showcasing the chef's expertise. And don’t be surprised by the relatively low prices for food of this caliber – it’s a major draw.
Why this matters to bordeaux's food scene
Paaates successfully bridges the gap between fine dining and convenience, offering a unique and accessible culinary experience. It's redefining what a quick meal can be in Bordeaux-Lac, proving that you don't have to break the bank to enjoy expertly crafted pasta. If all goes according to plan, expect to see Paaates popping up in more neighborhoods across Bordeaux, bringing a taste of palace-level cuisine to the masses.
The verdict: 4/5 stars!
Paaates is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and affordable lunch option. The innovative concept, high-quality ingredients, and skillful execution make it a standout addition to Bordeaux's vibrant food scene. Just be prepared to wait in line during peak hours—it's a sign of just how popular this new spot already is!