Balthazar, the iconic New York City French bistro, recently opened its doors to a distinctive collaboration with the renowned fashion house Ami Paris, transforming its classic ambiance with a touch of contemporary style. This partnership, initiated during New York Fashion Week, merges the worlds of haute cuisine and high fashion, creating a unique experience for patrons and observers alike.
When Culinary Tradition Meets Parisian Chic: Balthazar x Ami Paris
A Star-Studded Evening Ignites Fashion Week
New York Fashion Week saw an extraordinary convergence of glamour and gastronomy at Balthazar. Celebrities such as Aubrey Plaza and Tessa Thompson, alongside prominent magazine editors and influencers, gathered in the bistro's celebrated dining room. The atmosphere, steeped in Balthazar's signature nicotine-tinged glow, was further enhanced by complimentary champagne, a customary gesture when the restaurant's esteemed owner, Keith McNally, hosts friends.
The Unconventional Alliance: Balthazar and Ami Paris
The catalyst for this lavish Monday night gathering was the recently announced collaboration between Balthazar and Ami Paris. Orchestrated by Ami's visionary founder and designer, Alexandre Mattiussi, this month-long partnership has seen Balthazar's dining area adorned with Ami logos, appearing on the hostess stand and specially designed placemats. Even the Balthazar Bakery is participating, offering baguettes in bespoke Ami-branded paper sleeves. Guests received exclusive co-branded tote bags containing a croissant and a Balthazar x Ami Paris baseball cap, marking a memorable fusion of culinary and fashion aesthetics.
Fashion's Culinary Romance: A Growing Trend
The intertwining of restaurants and fashion brands is a burgeoning trend. From Burberry's plaid awning gracing Lucien to Sushi Park's pop-up within a Saint Laurent store, luxury brands are increasingly exploring culinary ventures. Many have even established their own eateries, signaling a deeper integration of these seemingly disparate industries.
Keith McNally's Unexpected Endorsement
The news of McNally's collaboration with the purveyors of "real Parisian" style at Ami Paris surprised many Balthazar regulars. McNally, known for his iconoclastic approach and public pronouncements, including famously banning James Corden, was not seen as one to embrace traditional partnerships. Commentators like Derek Blasberg and Emily Sundberg expressed their intrigue, highlighting McNally's departure from his usual stance against restaurant merchandise.
A Designer's Delight and a Restaurateur's Revelation
During the dinner, Alexandre Mattiussi lauded Balthazar as one of the world's great restaurants, praising its incredible food, confessing he had already enjoyed lunch there that day. Though McNally was not present for his customary DJ session, he offered insights via email, confirming his general dislike for restaurant merchandise, despite the Ami collaboration. He noted that while Balthazar does sell baseball hats and t-shirts, they are discreetly offered.
The Genesis of a Unique Partnership
McNally explained that the collaboration was partly due to their proximity, with the Ami store just three blocks away. He also commended the Ami team's pleasant and understated demeanor, qualities he greatly appreciates. His affinity for the Ami brand itself also played a role in his decision.
A Restaurateur's Candid Thoughts on His Partner
When asked about Alexandre Mattiussi, McNally playfully denied having met him, admitting his shy nature and preference for dining alone. He humorously added that he often enjoys his own company, a fortunate trait given his belief that others might not.
Embracing Change: Balthazar's Evolving Atmosphere
McNally shared that nothing truly frightens him except rejection. He expressed a genuine fondness for seeing the Ami brand in Balthazar's dining room, particularly appreciating their logo. This collaboration signifies a unique acceptance of external branding within his cherished establishment.
The Evolution of Balthazar's Ambiance
Reflecting on significant changes to Balthazar's atmosphere, McNally noted his recent preference for the restaurant's natural din over music. He revealed that, except for weekend DJ nights, the music volume is now kept very low, a stark contrast to his approach four years prior.
Fashion Week's Impact on Balthazar's Bustle
McNally stated that Balthazar's existing popularity means a New York Fashion Week bump is impossible, as the restaurant is consistently busy seven days a week for both lunch and dinner.
Beyond Professions: A Focus on Individuality
When asked to choose between fashion, art, business, or media people, McNally emphasized that his enjoyment of a guest depends solely on the individual, not their profession.
Balthazar's Parisian Allure
McNally speculated that Parisians are drawn to Balthazar because it evokes a sense of nostalgia for how restaurants in Paris used to be, though he humbly admits he is often mistaken about such things.
No Wardrobe Overhaul Inspired
In response to whether the experience inspired a wardrobe upgrade, McNally's succinct reply was, "You must be joking!"
A Count of Courtesy: Free Martinis for Readers
McNally humorously disclosed that he has given out 36 free martinis to "Revolutionary Road" readers, with the count still rising.
