La Rotonde, Paris

La Rotonde began its story at the start of the 20th century, when a certain Monsieur Libion acquired a modest bistro at the corner of Boulevard Raspail and Boulevard Montparnasse. He could hardly have imagined that it would grow into a true Parisian institution.

Set in the heart of the Montparnasse district, the brasserie quickly became a gathering place for some of the era’s most prominent figures, including Picasso, Modigliani, Cocteau, Trotsky, Gershwin, and Scott Fitzgerald. Closely tied to the history of the “Montparnos,” as local residents were once known, it has remained part of the area’s cultural fabric for over a century.

Today, within this lively neighbourhood that rarely slows down, the elegant façade opens onto spacious, wood-paneled interiors lined with red velvet banquettes. Here, classic French dishes are served in a refined yet welcoming setting, where the intimate atmosphere allows visitors to fully appreciate the enduring character of this historic café.