Paris is renowned for its culinary prowess, boasting a plethora of exquisite dining establishments that have delighted food enthusiasts for centuries. However, in recent years, a new and innovative concept has taken root in the City of Love, offering a dining experience like no other. “La Felicita,” situated in the vibrant 13th arrondissement, is a gastronomic paradise that combines size, style, and a unique ordering system to create an unforgettable dining adventure.
A Culinary Colossus
4500 square meters. 1000 seating places. Open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. It’s safe to say that the long-awaited new XXL project from Big Mamma at Station F (Paris XIIIe) has finally arrived. Named La Felicità (which means ‘happiness’ in Italian, but is also the title of a 1982 hit by Al Bano and Romina Power), the restaurant has opened its doors since May 26th 2018.
Equipped with three bars, five kitchens, four atmospheres, a bakery, a cafè (which remains open at night, but exclusively for Station F ‘start-uppers’), and a 1000-square-meter terrace (featuring an 8-meter-long barbecue and a wood-fired oven), this is the seventh Italian address of the group founded in 2015 by two HEC alumni, Victor Lugger and Tigrane Seydoux. It is open to the public, even though it is located within the startup incubator founded by Xavier Niel, who is also an investor in the Big Mamma Group, inside the classified Halle Freyssinet. The restaurant employs 400 staff members to keep it running.
The Sectors of La Felicita
The Greenhouse: Upon entering La Felicita, you’ll find yourself in the stunning Greenhouse. This sun-soaked space is filled with lush plants and offers an inviting atmosphere for diners. It’s the perfect place to savor your morning coffee or enjoy a leisurely brunch.
The Market: Continue your journey into the heart of La Felicita and you’ll arrive at The Market. Here, you’ll discover an array of culinary stations, each specializing in different cuisines, from wood-fired pizzas to Asian street food and delectable pastries. The Market is a food lover’s dream come true, providing an opportunity to explore diverse culinary delights in one place.
The Cantina: For those seeking a casual yet vibrant atmosphere, The Cantina is the place to be. It’s a hub of activity, serving up hearty Italian fare, including pasta, antipasti, and delicious gelato. With long communal tables and a lively atmosphere, it’s a great spot to meet friends and make new ones.
The Central Bar: The heart of La Felicita is the Central Bar, a massive gathering spot where mixologists craft tantalizing cocktails, and sommeliers curate an extensive wine list. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a drink while taking in the bustling energy of the restaurant.
The Special Ordering System
La Felicita has revolutionized the dining experience with its unique ordering system. Here, there are no traditional table attendants. Instead, diners use a high-tech, user-friendly app to place their orders. This innovative approach not only reduces wait times but also allows patrons to explore the entire menu at their own pace. It’s a departure from the traditional restaurant model and adds an element of fun and convenience to the dining experience.
Once you’ve placed your order, you can track its progress through the app and receive notifications when your food is ready for pickup. This streamlined process ensures that your meal is served hot and fresh, and it eliminates the need for traditional waitstaff, contributing to the restaurant’s unique and efficient operation.
La Felicita in Paris is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary wonderland that redefines the dining experience. Its immense size and diverse sectors cater to every palate, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. The special ordering system, devoid of table attendants, offers a novel way to enjoy a meal, emphasizing convenience and efficiency without sacrificing quality. For those looking to embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other, La Felicita is undoubtedly the place to be in the heart of Paris.
