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Just as Hermes has its Kelly bag and Chanel its Tweed suit, the Constants have their signature "Violon" which is their everlasting logo. But, recently, Christian and Catherine decided their Violon d'Ingres needed a new look.

Christian, gregarious and friendly, has always liked the idea of an open kitchen with a long chef's table just outside, bringing him closer to his clients, the better to get their input. "This I need to entertain friends, sit people down to test dishes, enjoy the old favourites", he explains. But who could visualize this transformation without taking the very special atmosphere away from the restaurant? Only one man: Luis Aleluia, the Beaux-Arts trained architect Constant met at The Ritz. It was Aleluia who created the cutting-edge kitchens, re-vamped the bars and the Ritz Cookery School. "I really liked what Luis did there, and knew that we could work together to create a fabulous deluxe brasserie", says Constant. "The theme is wide open space with a light and bright welcoming atmosphere", explains Luis.

The façade, with bold new sign, is now a delicious mushroom and red wine colour, with wide picture windows, to flood the restaurant with light. Step inside, the first thing that catches the eye is the handsome high table (table d’hote) with leather and steel covered stools, a great space for making new best friends. On the left is the wine wall, featuring favourite wines at affordable prices; of course there are still countless references in the downstairs cellar. Note the unique Farrow & Ball paint combinations on the wall and the chic new flooring. Hang you hat and your Hermes on the contemporary chrome wall hooks and sit at one of the comfy banquettes, make sure to reserve because good news travels fast and the restaurant is packed for lunch and dinner. "People said I was trying to do a Senderens", says Constant. "But that's not true, I’m not giving back any stars. If Michelin want to give me stars, I'm happy to receive them!"

And, if you can't get to the Violon as often as you'd like, Christian's cookery books, Everyday French Cooking and The Chicken Cook Book, displayed on a table in the window, will help. The striking flowers are from Eric Chauvan at Un Jour de Fleurs just around the corner at 22 rue Jean Nicot. Bon Appetit.

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