For years, la Coupole has boasted the most famous lamb curry in Paris, simmered to perfection under the direction of chef Paul Delbard in the ultra modern kitchens that were revamped when it was acquired by Jean-Paul Bucher in 1988.
That other celebrated place, the Coupole's basement dance hall, is where Josephine
Baker, Gardel, Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre liked to dance. The great names of Tango and Jazz loved the convivial atmosphere
.
Today, following some years in the wilderness, the dance hall once more echoes to the sound of music - salsa, electro-soul, broken beat or deep house, manned by top DJs and enjoyed by a new generation of revellers.
Panoramic view of the Coupole's basement dance hall !
Much of the legend of Montparnasse was forged in this former wood and coal store, bought in 1927 by Messrs. René Lafon and Ernest Fraux – managers of the Dôme café - to create the largest brasserie in Paris - 1000m² which were to grace the presence of all the rive gauche's artists of all nationalities.
The visitor's book is a veritable catalogue of modern artists and the vast bar has welcomed great personalities such as Kessel and Hemingway.
The 33 pillars and columns that mark out the immense dining room are still faithful to their post, and for the vast celebration organised for its 70th anniversary, la Coupole paid tribute to the artists of these pillars, students of Matisse and Fernand Léger.
From the world over, people come to wallow in the unique atmosphere of this brasserie where people-watching is a timeless pastime.
