The Shangri-La Hotel, Paris brings the elegance and tradition of lavish dinners and parties of the early 20th century with its new offering: The Bonaparte Dinner.
The property was once the private residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, hosting many grand royal banquets. As of this spring, private groups of 20 or more can experience the luxury of the Bonaparte era in the now-restored palace with multiple courses from two-Michelin-starred chef Christophe Moret.
“We wanted to honor the original resident of the palace, Prince Roland Bonaparte, and the history of the hotel, which is absolutely unique in Paris,” Stephan Vigerie, director of events, Shangri-La Hotel, Paris explained. “During the prince’s time, he hosted many elegant and sumptuous dinners for guests. We are delighted to bring back this tradition to the hotel.”
The dining experience kicks off with an aperitif on the terrace alongside a view of the Eiffel Tower. Guests are then invited in to the Grand Salon by a butler in era costume where the lavish dining room is adorned with porcelain dishware featuring the Bonaparte family symbols, custom-made linens and candelabras to really set the mood.
Chef Moret serves the four-course meal of soup, fish, meat and dessert, all reminiscent of French cuisine and not shying away from sauces, bisques, fillets and pastry. As far as customizing, “the menu can be slightly adapted for groups, while still keeping the spirit of the dishes “a la francaise,” Vigerie said.
The hotel embraces its past with the architecture and history of the property and that carries into the meeting space, many of which are registered French Historical Monuments.
The restored rooms feature nearly 23-foot-high ceilings and are equipped with advanced audiovisual equipment. The Grand Salon boasts original chandeliers, a marble fireplace and Louis XIV decor, and can accommodate up to 280 guests while the Salon Roland Bonaparte offers natural daylight and capacity for 260 guests.