A brief history
As an important meeting place for the Resistance, Café Max (formerly known as the Café Hélice) was, from 1941 onwards, an underground location for the movement, thanks to its owner Eugène Germain and several of his friends who secretly headed up the French Resistance network.
Having maintained regular contact with General de Gaulle's services in London from the bistro, they succeeded in foiling several of the enemy's plots.
In 1972, the café was renamed 'Café Max' in honor of Jean Moulin, a member of this small group of spies, whose resistance name was Max. Since then, Café Max has been the favorite haunt of whisperers who like to meet there.
This is where former spies, police officers, senior civil servants, business leaders, politicians and stock brokers head for a casual discussion.
Café Max was owned by Valdo Riva for over 18 years and was then sold in September 2022 to chef Frédéric Vardon, the owner of the Parisian restaurant Le 39V located on Avenue George V.
The bistro
This iconic venue with its original décor, zinc counter dating back to the turn of the century, wooden tables and red benches, has retained all its character, with the arrival of chef Frédéric Vardon. Located in the heart of Paris, between Les Invalides and the Ecole Militaire, this warm and friendly bistro with seating for up to 28 is a must-see. Its guests come to enjoy the bistro feel, lavish cuisine, intimate atmosphere and its owner's love of good food.
The Café Max terrace enhances this Parisian institution and offers you a place in the sun to enjoy the sunny days. Café Max thus perpetuates the tradition and remains the discreet and conducive to exchanges where we simply relax around discussions of business, colleagues, friends or family.
The cuisine
The bistro-style cuisine is simple and delicious. The "à la carte" and "blackboard" menus feature Parisian classics, such as Oeuf Mimosa (devilled eggs), the famous crispy pig's ears, Salers beef tartar, tender steak with shallots, Normandy-style veal kidney and wild-caught fish, crème caramel and rice pudding.
Supported by Chia Hung, Chef Frédéric Vardon enjoys uncovering exceptional products and offering quality items, in perfect harmony between nature and humans. A wonderful tribute to the regions of France.
Passionate about the world of wine, Frédéric Vardon has developed with his accomplices a large wine list that pays tribute to the land and the talent of the winegrowers. Every year since 2023, Café Max has organized the Paulée du Gamay, an unmissable, gourmet and festive event for Beaujolais lovers.
Usefull information
Open from Monday to Friday :
for Lunch and dinner
from 12.15pm to 2pm and from 7.30pm to 9.45pm
Métro :
La Tour Maubourg
Press contact :
Clémence Broustine
