Among the world’s most desirable seaside destinations, Saint-Tropez conjures cinematic village scenes and internationally renowned hospitality. For the second consecutive year, Louis Vuitton proposes a new iteration of the restaurant, Arnaud Donckele & Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton, at the White 1921 Hotel, located near its historical store. Opening on May 25th and conceived as an elegant oasis under the culinary vision of star chef Arnaud Donckele and chef pâtissier Maxime Frédéric, this multi-sensory concept puts forth inspiration and discovery, from the neo-gastronomy menu to the chic and breezy ambiance where guests can experience the summer art de vivre of Louis Vuitton.
First collaborating at the Cheval Blanc in Paris, Arnaud and Maxime reunite here, renewing a combined vision that plays out like a gustative journey amidst a legendary backdrop. Situated on the famed Place des Lices, the restaurant showcases a new menu along with a colourful twist to the iconic Louis Vuitton Monogram – from the table service to the décor. Both hailing from Normandy, the chefs have created a four-hand menu that reflects a shared passion for reimagining the Maison’s long-standing savoir-faire as a dining experience that begins even before the composition of each dish. Whether a rustic yet finessed tomato tart; wild prawn with a verveine-scented sorbet; roasted chicken with oregano served with herb-infused garden vegetables and a potato mousseline, Arnaud Donckele transforms premium, locally sourced ingredients into a sensorial voyage through the Provencal and Mediterranean region.
Maxime Frédéric, meanwhile, creatively interprets classic French desserts such as a raspberry pavlova and vacherin ice cream cake that can be enjoyed from day through evening. Embracing a philosophy towards food that extends from the freshest ingredients to meticulous execution, their approach brings a lively touch to every dish and is in perfect harmony with the artisanal values inherent to Louis Vuitton.
Naturally, Saint-Tropez provides a chic yet relaxed atmosphere for the restaurant, where rattan furniture is trimmed with natural elements of macramé, and upholstery throughout features the painterly Monogram motifs in an elegant orange colour scheme from the LV By the Pool Resort collection. Indeed, the colours also hark back to the Côte d’Azur of the 70s and 80s, a return to the Golden Age of the French Riviera. Back then, orange, yellow and ochre were very much in evidence on house facades, beaches, clothing and interior design. The terrace is surrounded by greenery enlivened with signature Louis Vuitton flower accents.
With the return of the restaurant comes a new Louis Vuitton Art de la Table collection suited to the relaxed chic of Saint-Tropez. The collection will be available from May 31st. Crafted in fine, extra-white Limoges porcelain, this seasonal range of dinnerware evokes a tropical paradise awash with flowers, coral and starfish. From the principal plates to the multi-use bowls, teacups and saucers, the motif enhances the summer table setting with an enchanting flourish. To accompany the Art de la Table collection, tablemats are also proposed and sold in limited edition in Louis Vuitton stores.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these raffia tablemats are handwoven. Their classic round shape is accentuated by an orange border, echoed by a delicately embroidered Monogram Flower in the center – a perfect match with the LV Resort orange tableware collection.
The Saint-Tropez Women store is also where visitors can discover the latest Resort Collection, LV By the Pool. Near the restaurant, the offer reveals in vibrant designs enhanced with natural materials such as hand-crocheted raffia and vivid tones of coral and turquoise, across ready-to-wear, bags, shoes, textiles, accessories and more. A tiled watercolour effect defines several bag styles while key silhouettes exude a laid-back allure. To carry through the holiday and beyond, the Saint-Tropez ONTHEGO MM Raffia comes in a limited edition for Saint-Tropez. Meticulously hand-crocheted by expert artisans over three days, the bag endures as a cherished souvenir item for years to come. Tucked behind the store, a serene garden environment welcomes clients who wish to enjoy a hot or cool refreshment. Amidst lush vegetation, the seating features the tiled Monogram of the LV By the Pool collection.
Throughout the season, visitors can explore Saint-Tropez thanks to not only the Louis Vuitton Summer Resorts City Guide set, but also a customised Mini Moke vehicle. Available on request, it can shuttle guests between the Cheval Blanc Hotel, the store and other dedicated spots to seize on all the unforgettable summer moments.
Arnaud Donckele & Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton
Hotel White 1921
Place des Lices – 83990 Saint-Tropez – France
Opening Hours:
From May 25th to June 1st –12:30pm – 10:30pm (lunch & dinner upon reservation on www.louisvuitton.com)
From June 1st to October 8th – 3:00pm – 10:30pm (dinner upon reservation on www.louisvuitton.com)
Louis Vuitton Women Store
Louis Vuitton Saint-Tropez
48, rue François Sibilli – 83990 Saint-Tropez, France
Opening Hours: From Monday to Sunday, 10:00am – 8:00pm
Louis Vuitton Men store
Louis Vuitton Saint-Tropez
53, rue François Sibilli – 83990 Saint-Tropez, France
Opening Hours: From Monday to Sunday, 10:00am – 8:00pm
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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