New York City is known for its spectacular displays of art, fashion, and food. But when the three intersect, say in the form of a one-of-a-kind immersive experience, you can expect it to be truly grand. That is exactly what one can and should be prepared for upon entering Louis Vuitton’s newest storefront at 6 E. 57th St. The location serves as a temporary home while the brand’s flagship store (across the street) undergoes renovations and is already becoming a landmark in its own right.

 

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As an iconic fashion house, Louis Vuitton is a name associated with luxury living. The latest expansion is just another feather in its well-decorated cap. There’s lots to marvel at as you walk toward the store’s entrance, but the true star is the eatery aptly named Le Café Louis Vuitton and a very grown-up chocolate shop on the fourth floor. From a design perspective, the café is the epitome of whimsy meets art deco minimalism. That may sound like an oxymoron, but let me explain further.

The walls are lined with sharp wooden shelving and illuminated bookshelves, which serve as the perfect backdrop for coffee table books of various sizes. In total, the library showcases 650 titles, including a mix of French and international artists. Instead of leather-lined booths and classic French brasserie decor, the furniture is an eclectic mix of colorful sofas and patterned accent chairs offset by solid wooden tables. In the midst of what feels like a very cool living room, the dining tables feature a simple setting of seemingly plain plates and wine glasses. The combination is unfussy while being cool and chic. Like the house’s Spring/Summer collection, which featured strong silhouettes and linear elements, Le Café utilizes textiles and pattern play to convey an effortless sense of style.

The Dining Options

As for the dining options, you can expect them to be just as grand as the opening night guest list. The evening drew a crowd of Hollywood A-listers and even decor maven Martha Stewart. The kitchen is helmed by two renowned chefs—Michelin-starred Christophe Bellanca, who handles the savory bites, and Mary George, former head of pastry at Daniel, for desserts—and the offerings are said to focus on luxury snacking for a grandeur gourmand experience. Booking a table at the café isn’t an easy feat. However, if you manage to snag a table after a day of perusing (or shopping) the collections, you’re in for a treat of eclectic French fare.

One thing is for sure: no matter what dish you decide on, it’s sure to wow you, be it caviar and Champagne or a sumptuous chocolate tart followed by espresso.