When Marie-Anna Delgado and Olivia Brunet founded Paloma in 2021, they transformed the former restaurant into a bistro that embodies their shared vision. Both graduates of the École des Beaux-Arts, Delgado—a trained chef—and Brunet—a skilled carpenter—combine culinary precision with a deep sense of material craft. Together, they’ve created a space that feels intimate yet deliberate, where every detail reflects intention and care.

The flooring, originally from the 1980s, was carefully removed and upcycled for the cellar, while the dining area was reimagined with vintage grès cérame tiles from the French manufacturer Winckelmans, whose savoir-faire dates back to 1894. Delgado and Brunet laid much of the new flooring themselves, integrating subtle wooden inlays and hand-cut mosaics that give the room its quiet rhythm. At the entrance, a green velvet curtain opens onto a mosaic spelling “Paloma,” framed by delicate knife-and-fork motifs—a nod to the house’s culinary soul. Near the kitchen doorway, an oyster mosaic glimmers softly, marking the spot where oysters are sometimes served. Each gesture, from tile to texture, speaks to the duo’s devotion to craft and continuity.

Every table, chair, and shelf has been custom-built, including the large brass bottle storage unit designed for the outdoor terrace. Ingeniously practical, it holds ice and bottles during the summer months, allowing the team to serve guests swiftly without returning indoors. The outdoor seating itself was conceived with the same sensitivity—modular, inviting, and made for conversation. The result is indoor and outdoor space where practicality, craftsmanship, and hospitality converge seamlessly, making both work and leisure feel effortless.

Walking into Paloma, one is immediately enveloped by the gentle intimacy of the space. The ceiling, entirely custom-made by Olivia Brunet was individually cut and fitted to the room, forming a soft, cocoon-like envelope. Wooden ceiling fans, evoking a sense of timeless craftsmanship, punctuate the design. The ceiling not only adds visual warmth but also improves the acoustics, creating a serene balance with the floors and walls. Every element, from the lighting to the bespoke furniture and outdoor storage solutions, is thoughtfully orchestrated to elevate the guest experience while supporting the workflow of the team.

The kitchen reflects the same philosophy of care and intention. Seasonal, organic, and thoughtfully composed, each dish mirrors the vibrant energy of Belleville. Since its opening in 2021, Paloma has seamlessly integrated into the colorful, creative neighborhood, drawing local artists, designers, and photographers for lunch and welcoming guests from across Paris in the evening. The bistro has become a lively community hub, blending effortlessly with the spirit of the neighborhood.

Paloma and AVENIR share a deep respect for craft, materiality, and timeless design. Visiting Paloma inspires the AVENIR Atelier, illustrating how intentionality in every material, from flooring to furniture, elevates the overall experience. Our visit is a celebration of creativity, precision, and care, where culinary and design sensibilities meet in perfect harmony.