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I recently had the opportunity to dine at Chez L’Ami Louis for the first time to see what all the hype was about. Situated in Paris and recently bought by the richest man in Europe, the bistro is well-known for its famous $130 roast chicken, which did not disappoint. The portion was generous, and the overall meal was delicious, costing us 272 euros (approximately $300).
As a local resident of Paris for the past 15 years, I have often passed by Chez L’Ami Louis and been deterred by the seemingly high prices displayed on the menu outside. Despite this, the bistro has built a reputation as one of the city’s most famous bistros, attracting famous patrons like Bill Clinton, David Beckham, and Brad Pitt.
With the recent majority stake purchase by LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault in June, the bistro is now under new ownership. Although the prices at Chez L’Ami Louis have been a point of criticism among some diners, I was intrigued to try it out for myself.
Making a reservation at Chez L’Ami Louis proved to be a bit challenging as the restaurant only has a limited number of tables. After unsuccessful attempts to secure a reservation over the phone, I visited the bistro in person and managed to book a table for two on a Sunday night.
Our reservation almost slipped through the cracks, but we were fortunate to still secure a table for dinner. Upon arrival at 8 p.m., we were met with curious stares from other diners but were eventually seated after a slight mishap with our reservation confirmation.
The atmosphere at Chez L’Ami Louis was warm and inviting, with fresh fruits and vegetables adorning the wooden tables. The cozy space exuded an old-world charm, and the bustling activity of the staff added to the lively ambiance.
The menu at Chez L’Ami Louis featured signature dishes like escargot and roast chicken, which we eagerly ordered to accompany a half bottle of Bordeaux from the extensive wine list. Despite finding the prices a bit steep, the quality of the food and the overall experience justified the cost.
Dining among a diverse mix of locals, tourists, and elite diners added to the charm of the night. The service was impeccable, and the food was outstanding, particularly the roast chicken, which left a lasting impression.
Paying the bill of 272 euros, we left Chez L’Ami Louis with smiles on our faces, having enjoyed a memorable dining experience in one of Paris’s most iconic bistros.
