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A quintessential French bistro captivates with its charm, characterized by warm woods, tiled surfaces, and rich jewel tones, enticing patrons to indulge in a glass or two of wine. This year, influenced by the ongoing “Euro summer,” the upcoming Paris Olympics, and a resurgence of French dining in the United States, interest in French culture and cuisine is surging across the globe. (For those considering a trip to Paris, a comprehensive travel guide awaits.)
To help evoke the ambiance of a French bistro in your own home, we spoke with Anna Polonsky, a Parisian creative director and founder of Polonsky & Friends, alongside Cody Pruitt, the owner of New York City’s Libertine. They shared insights on capturing the bistro aesthetic, noting that while some elements—like zinc countertops typical of many Parisian bars—might be challenging to replicate, other features can be more accessible to integrate.
Both experts emphasize the eclectic nature of French bistros, which often showcase the evolution of styles over time rather than adhering to a strict design blueprint. Polonsky points out that bistros “layer over the past; they don’t white box and start from scratch.” Therefore, homeowners are encouraged to embrace this eclecticism: “Don’t hesitate to mix and match pieces from different periods and brands, avoiding a strictly folkloric theme,” she advises.
Authentic French cafe chairs
For authentic cafe chairs, Polonsky recommends Nomadic Trading Co., known for offering vintage French cafe and school chairs at reasonable prices in the U.S. Regular visits to their website are advisable, as their inventory consists of unique, one-off vintage items.
Commercial-grade bistro chairs
If you’re looking for a more readily available option, consider commercial-grade bistro chairs. To create a cozy, lived-in aesthetic, take inspiration from Libertine, which showcases a variety of chair styles paired with matching wood finishes.
Enameled steel bistro tables
At Libertine, their striking red tables, made by the French company Ardamez, boast personalization with the restaurant’s name. Similar Ardamez tables grace locations like Café de Flore, a Parisian staple since 1887. While these tables are a premium investment, Pruitt deems them valuable additions for any bistro-inspired space.
Marble-topped bistro tables
For an economical alternative that still exudes classic charm, consider marble-topped bistro tables from Bonnecaze, a Louisiana company. These tables emulate the timeless quality of more expensive options without breaking the bank.
Bistro plates with striped bands
Branded striped plates are a common sight at establishments like Bistrot Paul Bert in France. While custom bistro plates are available online, they can be costly, especially when ordering a complete set. For a budget-friendly alternative, explore green-striped plates, similar to those found at New York City’s trendy Le Dive, to capture that classic French dining experience.
Go-to water glasses
Duralex tumblers, known for their durability and stackability, are a staple in bistros and public spaces throughout France. Polonsky expresses her mixed feelings about them, stating, “I don’t particularly love them—perhaps because I’ve seen them countless times throughout my life in France—but they truly are an enduring classic.”
Sturdy wine glasses
Pruitt highlights his preference for sturdier glassware in a bistro setting. While many sommeliers lean toward delicate thin glass, he believes that bistros require glasses that can withstand clinking and can be comfortably held. Spiegelau’s wine glasses provide that necessary robustness in a size that fits perfectly on smaller bistro tables.
Baguette-style cutlery
The cutlery at Libertine primarily features pieces from Arthur Krupp and Sambonet, specifically baguette-style flatware. “You’ll find that design throughout Paris,” Pruitt notes.
Pocketknife-inspired steak knives
As a hallmark of bistro dining, standout French knives are a must-have. Polonsky favors the Perceval 9.47, created by acclaimed French chef Yves Charles. Though she prefers ivory handles, these knives are available in various colors.
Restaurant-beloved steak knives
Knives from Roland Lannier, crafted in Thiers—an area renowned for its knife-making heritage—are a preferred choice for many restaurants globally. “I was determined to feature his knives at our restaurant,” Pruitt shares, emphasizing the personal touch. These knives, which Lannier personally delivered to Libertine, embody Pruitt’s philosophy that bistros showcase the work of individual artisans, from farmers to winemakers. Interestingly, the knives are designed with the curved side acting as the dull edge, while the flat side remains sharp.
Budget-friendly bistro-style steak knives
For those on a tighter budget, Opinel’s bistro-style knives are an excellent alternative. Polonsky uses them daily at her home, highlighting their practicality. Available in both sets and individually, these knives come in vibrant colors and can even be customized with text for an additional charge.
French linen napkins
Polonsky often sources her vintage napkins from flea markets across France. However, for those unable to travel, she recommends tea towels from Maison Masarin, a French brand focused on upcycling vintage textiles through restoration and dyeing.
An elegant wine-centric print
It’s common for bistros to showcase art inspired by wine fairs or flea market finds. Pruitt notes that this allows for a relaxed artistic approach. The dining room at Libertine includes select pieces, such as a wine-themed drawing by artist Louise Sheeran, who primarily focuses on wine-related art.
Vintage French liquor ads
Many bistros adorn their walls with old liquor advertisements. Polonsky frequently searches eBay for these treasures, using terms like “vintage spirits ad.” A new generation of bistros has adopted similar decor, often displaying framed posters from natural wine fairs. To prevent an overly curated look, Polonsky advises to limit the display, suggesting a select few pieces in strategic locations, such as “one really striking piece in the bathroom and a couple in the main dining area.”
Wooden chalkboard
A chalkboard displaying the menu is an iconic element of any French bistro, evident in many of Pruitt’s favorite eateries in Paris and at Libertine as well. He appreciates how it symbolizes the changing nature of the menu and seasonal ingredients. While a home chalkboard may not need to list a menu, it can serve as an attractive décor piece reflecting one’s inspiration.
Source
www.eater.com