The Ritz was inaugurated on June 1, 1898, on the historic Place Vendome, constructed
by Hardouin-Mansart, the architect of Versailles. Its unique charm and the distinction of its
guests have made the Ritz a mythical hotel.
Of Swiss origin, Cιsar Ritz climbed steadily upward in the hierarchy of European hotels,
working in some of the continent's most prestigious establishments. Later he would give his
own hotel "all the refinements that a prince could wish for in his own residence": A
warm and intimate ambiance, three gardens, French 18th century-style furniture, and much
more.
In 1898, Cιsar Ritz revolutionized the hotel industry: The Ritz Paris was the first hotel to
have electric lighting throughout and to equip each guest room with its own private bath and
telephone. Cιsar Ritz's guests were well cared for, benefiting from the most modern
comforts, such as soft, indirect lighting conceived to flatter ladies'
complexions.
The Ritz Paris was entirely renovated between 1979 and 1989, with the greatest respect for its
original style. The decoration is still strictly ΰ la franηaise from the classic
furnishings to the rugs and wall-hangings. It lives up to all the demands of modern life while
preserving the charm of the past.
The Ritz Hotel is located in the heart of Paris near the Centers of Business, Art and
Shopping, easily accessible by all means of Transport ( Plane, Train, Car ). The personnel of
the Hotel is at your service to organize all the details of your stay. A unique address, among
the world's most prestigious. Discover the comfort, elegance and superb refinement of the
French art de vivre. Limousine Service is available.
ESPADON RESTAURANT:
Espadon Restaurant is one of the temples of Parisian gastronomy, highly-rated in the
world's best guides. The cuisine is both classic and creative, in the great tradition of
Auguste Escoffier, the first Chef of the Ritz. Today, the kitchen brigade is directed with brio
by Maurice Guilloult and his Chefs. An elegant and refined decor welcomes guests from Breakfast
to Dinner. Tables are set in the flowered Garden from the first warm days of spring. A peaceful
haven in the heart of Paris where the chirping of birds is heard from dawn to dusk. The
Ritz's treasure is a Cellar with thousands of bottles, including some of the rarest
vintages.
- Breakfast from 7:00 am - 11:00 am.
- Lunch from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm.
- Dinner from 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm.
BARS:
The first Ritz Bar was created in 1921, however, today the Hotel has three, each with
its own personality and convivial atmosphere.
The Vendome Bar :
Ideal for a light, quick Lunch or simply for pleasant conversation over a cocktail, the
Vendome Bar is where one can forget the bustle of Parisian life. This elegant gathering place
is renowned for its sophistication and flowered Garden. Tea time here, accompanied by sublime
pastries and the sweet strains of a harp, is a Ritz tradition. It opens everyday.
- Lunch from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm.
- Tea from 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
- Cocktails from 6:00 pm - 1:00 am.
The Hemingway Bar :
From 6:30 pm, it is in this Bar, " liberated " by Ernest Hemingway in 1944, that
the Ritz soirιes begin. Its cocktails are renowned all over the world and every Wednesday night
there are cigar tasting for aficionados. Hosting book signings and press cocktails, the
Hemingway Bar is also a meeting place for editors, journalists and literary critics. A photo
exhibition of Hemingway's life as a war correspondent and a new cocktail menu in honor of
his 100th birthday pay homage to the spiritual father of this mythic Bar. It opens Tuesday
through Saturday From 6:30 pm to 2:00 am.
The Pool Bar :
After a moment of relaxation in the sumptuous decor of the Ritz Health Club, savor a fruit
or vegetable cocktail, a light lunch, or brunch on Sunday. It opens everyday.
- Breakfast / Snacks from 7:00 am - 12:00 pm.
- Lunch from 12:00 am - 6:00 pm.
- Snacks from 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm.
- Brunch ( Sundays only ) from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.
ECOLE RITZ - ESCOFFIER:
Auguste Escoffier, friend and colleague of Cιsar Ritz, is one of the most important chefs of
modern French cuisine. He inaugurated the Kitchens of the Ritz and created numerous famous
dishes, such as the " Pκche Melba ". The School’s Courses are designed for every
type of gastronome: from enthusiastic beginner and committed food lover, to future or seasoned
professionals.
The school provides practical and theoretical courses in cuisine and pastry adapted to the
level and goals of each student.