Matsuri's New Restaurant Interior: A Fusion of Japanese and Californian Modernism

Matsuri's newly rebranded restaurant on rue Victor Hugo in Paris's 16th arrondissement features an exquisite interior remodel by Rudy Guénaire.

Ludovic Balay

The 200-square-meter area reinterprets Japanese dining as a contemporary canteen, merging nostalgia with innovative design.

Central to the restaurant is the kaiten, a conveyor belt showcasing a selection of freshly made Californian Rolls. Diners are positioned to face this culinary display, seated on bespoke chairs that provide a contemporary, robust rendition of classic Izakaya. The furniture, influenced by Californian Modernism, emanates a nostalgic ambiance. This design style, prevalent in mid-20th century Japan, results in a harmonious blend of nostalgic Eastern and Western aesthetics.

Ludovic Balay

The evening ambiance is notably captivating, with the area enveloped in continuous twilight. Rectangular domes of ultra-thick polycarbonate overhead create a ceiling that pays tribute to the iconic neon-lit visuals from the 1982 film Blade Runner. This distinctive lighting arrangement emits a gentle, sunset-like illumination over the textured concrete walls, embellished with old Japanese posters. This meticulous interior design cultivates an immersive dining experience, taking diners to a surreal amalgamation.

Matsuri Victor Hugo, 119-121 Avenue Victor Hugo, 75016 Paris, France