-- This year, Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris celebrates its 115th anniversary, marking the occasion with an intimate dinner held within Bar Joséphine, one of the hotel's most iconic spaces. The evening brought together a select group of guests and paid tribute to the heritage and excellence that have shaped the legacy of this Parisian landmark.
An Exceptional Setting: Bar Josephine as a Stage for Celebration
A true emblem of the Left Bank, Bar Josephine hosted this anniversary dinner beneath its majestic frescoes, in an atmosphere of timeless elegance accompanied by live music. The Akirov family, owners of the hotel, together with Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental, attended the celebration to honour the hotel and personally welcome guests. Among them were well known figures from the worlds of art and culture who frequent the hotel, including qu'Isabelle Huppert, Benoit Magimel, Mélanie Laurent, Karine Tuil, Dorothée Gilbert or Mademoiselle Agnès. At the end of the dinner, French musician and songwriter Benjamin Biolay took to the piano to offer an intimate musical interlude, performing a few songs from his repertoire to the admiring gaze of the guests.
Addressing his guests, Laurent Kleitman declares : “Beating hearts of cinema, literature, theater, architecture, music, and dance, this place belongs to you. May you come here often—to write, to dream, to create, each of you leaving the mark of your singular voice, or simply to do nothing but savor the moment. May each of your visits become part of the living memory of this legendary place, in this iconic neighborhood.
Georgi Akirov, owner of the property: “This anniversary is especially meaningful, as it marks the beginning of a new and promising chapter. Since April, the Lutetia has joined the Mandarin Oriental family, a partnership built on shared values of excellence, authenticity, and a profound respect for heritage. I could not be more confident in the future of this legendary hotel.”
Unveiling the Lutetia Fan: A Signature of Mandarin Oriental
To mark the milestone, Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris revealed its new bespoke fan, crafted exclusively for the hotel by Maison Duvelleroy, the renowned Parisian fan maker.
A historic symbol of Mandarin Oriental, the fan depicts the ship—an emblem shared by both Paris and the Lutetia since its origins—highlighting the encounter between these two storied institutions.
Handmade in France, this large “brisé” fan (without pleating) is a true work of art, created through intricate straw and exotic wood marquetry, detailed with mother-of-pearl and framed by a white ribbon. More than 230 hours of craftsmanship were required to bring this remarkable piece to life. Its combination of iridescent mother-of-pearl, soft aquatic hues and the deeper tones of mahogany creates a unique interplay of light, shifting throughout the day and night.
After the celebration, the fan was installed in the hotel's central gallery, where it can now be admired by all visitors.
A Culinary Journey by Three-Michelin-Starred Chef Richard Ekkebus
To elevate the celebration, three-Michelin-starred Chef Richard Ekkebus, Culinary Director at Mandarin Oriental The Landmark, Hong Kong, designed an exclusive menu especially for the event. Conceived as a sensory journey between East and West, the dinner showcased the creativity and boldness characteristic of his cuisine. Guests enjoyed dishes such as Toothfish with peppers, marigold tagetes tapenade and Sichuan pepper, as well as Wagyu beef prepared Char Siu-style, served with beetroot and a salted plum–shiso purée. The sense of wonder continued through dessert with creations such as avocado with lime, Sicilian pistachio, Granny Smith apple and Thai basil.
115 Years of Parisian Art and History
Located in the heart of the Left Bank, Lutetia has embodied Parisian elegance since 1910. Created by the Boucicaut family, founders of Le Bon Marché, the hotel was conceived as a refined retreat for a discerning clientele, seamlessly blending Art Nouveau and Art Deco.
Throughout the 20th century, Lutetia became a gathering place for leading artists and writers, welcoming figures such as Pablo Picasso, James Joyce, Joséphine Baker and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. As a symbol of the neighbourhood's creative spirit, the hotel remains closely associated with Parisian cultural life.
Lutetia also played a defining role during the Second World War: requisitioned by occupying forces, it later became a refuge for deportees returning from Nazi concentration camps. This chapter in its history has imbued the hotel with enduring values of resilience, compassion and hope.
Over the decades, the hotel has remained a cultural landmark, shaped by the bold vision of personalities such as Sonia Rykiel, David Lynch and Serge Gainsbourg.
A meticulous restoration led by architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte unveiled in 2018 a renewed palace that honours its original soul while meeting the expectations of an international, sophisticated clientele. Since 2025, Lutetia has been managed by Mandarin Oriental, which remains committed to preserving its heritage and singular identity while offering the legendary service and hospitality for which the brand is known.
About Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris
Lutetia Paris is the quintessential Parisian palace, a symbol of sophistication and timeless elegance. Situated in the heart of the Left Bank, Le Lutetia blends the charm of the past with contemporary luxury. The hotel features a selection of fine dining options, elegant bars, and the renowned Akasha Spa, offering a complete luxury experience. With its rich history, impeccable service, and stunning Art Nouveau and Art Deco design, Lutetia continues to be a true Parisian landmark, providing guests with an exceptional, unforgettable stay.
Release ID: 89178856
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