Fulgurances: The one to discover every changing season

I just LOVE discovering new restaurants in Paris. I have a soft spot for anything new and unique in some way. Fulgurances is just the place. I’ve never heard of any restaurant doing what they are doing, and that’s exactly why you should go. Read my restaurant review below.

The concept

The concept behind Fulgurances is what intrigued my interest and put it at the top of my list of restaurants to check out. A little while ago, a friend told me about a restaurant that changes chefs every season. I thought, while changing the menu every season isn’t new, changing chefs definitely is. So I looked them up and learned that they offer a unique opportunity for aspiring sous chefs to run a kitchen and test their ideas before opening a restaurant of their own.

I seriously love food and that includes cooking, so the idea of trying someone’s heart felt creations at the debut of their dreams sounded like an incredible opportunity. In my mind I thought, these people are at the forefront of making their dreams come true. I don’t believe there would be a dish that they make that could have more thought and love put into them than these ones. I’m convinced so I booked a table.

The food

Absolutely delicious and very Instagram worthy. Most of the dishes were almost too beautiful to eat, yet promised a mouth full of flavour and definitely worth devouring. The chef, Mariana Villegas who comes from Mexico, did an incredible job and impressed my palette with spicy and citrus flavours. In my personal opinion, there are not enough places in Paris that introduce enough spice and heat into their dishes. I was really impressed at how much kick there was in every dish, whether spice or citrus. Notably, I loved the scallops with lime “caviar” and hint of green chilli. For the main dish I was asked to choose between duck or fish. “Duck please!” Along side it was a fantastically spicy pumpkin puree spread across the plate. For dessert, my favourite was the goat cheese ice cream with cinnamon and candied pecans.

Overall the tasting experience consists of several mises en bouches (small bites), several starters, a main dish, and a few desserts. For 58€ it’s a steal honestly. If you’re on a budget, the trick in Paris is to go for lunch. They have a 19€ or 25€ option during lunch service.

The service

Extremely busy, this place is bustling. They do their best to limit the number of services per evening, but all of the courses take some time. When we arrived we were delayed to sit for quite some time, despite having a reservation. Understanding of our hunger, we were set up at the bar to begin but this is definitely one of the latest dinners I’ve ever had. I’d recommend the first seating rather than the latter.

The servers were knowledgable about the dishes and their ingredients. We were never rushed through our meal despite it being well past closing. It was clear to me that this was why a table hadn’t freed up for us from the first seating. The casual friendly manner was appreciated and I think that the service was overall pretty good even if it took a long time to get started.

The decor & ambiance

Eating at the Fulgurances is like being at your friend’s dinner party, in which the chef is your friend, proud of each creation. The space is rather small so seating is a bit intimate, as if you already made acquaintances with one another. Appropriate lighting, some music, and the sound of everyone enjoying their dishes create a great dinner ambiance.

The decor is simple with natural cut, uneven wooden edges on the tables and bar. Spiralling staircases and a bit of artwork bring the place together with a simple charm. I also loved that their plates were rustic as well; noticeably chipped and distressed. For the most part it looks like most other Parisian restaurants and would be unsuspecting from the street.

My recommendation

4.8/5 — Highly recommend!!

If I could convince you to try any restaurant in Paris, this would certainly be one. The concept alone is a unique find in this city, and it offers a unique twist in tastes and food throughout the year. At the same time, it’s a great experience and an excellent way to support the dreams of go-getters. Having the chance to eat the food of a passionate individual who plans to go the whole nine yards is a rare and special opportunity.

Pricing is affordable and a great deal for the quality and number of dishes. I had absolutely no room for more after my dinner here. If you are eating alone or on a smaller budget, go during lunch time. During dinner hours I’d recommend booking the first seating. Keep your group rather small and your mind completely open. Then, return in a few months to try out the next chef!

Check out their website to see the current chef and discover their experience and method.

Hours:

• Lunch: 12h30 – 14h00
• Dinner: 19h30 – 22h

Tuesday – Friday (not open weekends)

Tried this place too? Comment below! I’d love to hear about other restaurants that you love or want to try. Better yet, let’s go together?! Contact me and let’s make it a date.