My Paris: Interview with Chef Thibault Sombardier

When Thibault Sombardier composes a new dish, his inspiration comes from memories of his Burgundy-Beaujolais childhood. A leader of the pack of Paris’ most exciting and diverse chefs, Sombardier has a CV taking in Michelin-starred restaurant Antoine (closed since Covid) and competing alongside France’s finest culinary talent in the 2014 season of Top Chef, winning second place. He combines haute cuisine with a unique contemporary style of cooking — discover his innovative cooking at Sellae,  Mensae, and the just open – achingly chic – Les Parisiens. Between saucepans, Thibault agreed to answer a few lifestyle questions.  

What does Paris mean to you? 

 The unique atmosphere of “la vie Parisienne” in restaurants, on the streets, everywhere there’s the inimitable “vie bohème.”

Share an espresso or bottle of wine with a Parisien/Parisienne – past or present- who would it be? 

Definitely Jean Gabin (1904-1976). He represents the true spirit of Paris in days gone by. And I adore his “ti-ti” accent. 

One thing every Parisian should own? 

A bicycle! And Paris’ bike cafés are the perfect place for bikes, accessories, advice, snacks. At Le Peloton Café in the Marais (4th), there’s a great choice and good coffee. Jour de Vélo (12th) is on the charismatic rue de Cîteaux – a fun address for wannabe Bernard Hinaults!

A favorite lunch? 

Le Bizetro: An authentic brasserie, 6 rue Georges Bizet in the 16th. Les vins du Beaujolais, des copains, du saucisson! 

Best for coffee and/or cocktails? 

The cute café / bakery Mokonuts in the 11th. I love the sourdough waffles! And, for world inspired cocktails, Bar James Joyce, bien sûr! Try the USA-themed cocktail: Buffalo Trace whisky infused with Liquorice. (€19).

 

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Buying clothes- where do you go? 

I’m a fan of the hip n’ happpening indie boutiques on rue de Charonne in the 11th arrondissement. 

Favorite markets? 

Richard Lenoir (Sunday and Thursday) and, from Tuesday to Sunday, Marché d’Aligre. Towards the back of the square, there’s a brocante (antiques market) where you can sift through jumbled piles of anything from old books, posters, exhibition catalogues, china and fun decorative objects, used clothes and shoes.

Favorite arrondissement? 

Between Bastille and Nation, this bustling area offers art, history, and marvelous local food markets, speakeasy cocktail bars, plenty of trees, and urban architecture. And, I  equally love the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district. It’s so romantic: Café de Flore, art galleries, the Luxembourg Gardens.… J’adore!

How do you have fun in Paris? 

Paddle on the River Seine. 

 

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A secret “touristy” wish? 

A Tuk-Tuk tour.

 

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The most touristy outing?  

Les Bateaux Mouches on the river Seine. 

One thing you wish Parisians would stop complaining about? 

Everything! However a Parisian who doesn’t complain is not a true Parisian! 

A favorite book? 

Ocean’s Songs by the navigator extraordinaire Olivier Kersauson.

Favorite Film? 

Full Metal Jacket, directed by Stanley Kubrick. 

Favorite town – apart from Paris of course? 

Rome – La Dolce Vita! 

Favorite time of the year? 

Christmas in Paris, it’s magic! 

You have €25 left – how do you spend it? 

At the Marché des Enfants Rouges in the Marais district.