Kong

Just one or two times into our once-a-month-nice-restaurant series, we ended up taking a break because our budget just didn't allow it.  Trips to Italy, birthdays, and weekend jaunts to Normandy just got in the way!  One restaurant we decided that would still remain on our list was Kong, the trendy resto in the 1st arrondissement.  Kong is an ultra chic restaurant and bar perched on the top of the Kenzo building across from Pont Neuf.  The Louis Vuitton offices are just opposite the building, and the glass dome covering the restaurant allows for a very natural light and a view over the Seine.  The restaurant was designed by Philippe Starck, a French designer and perhaps one of the best known New Design style designers.  This Paris meets Tokyo restaurant is kitschy and trendy and pulls decor from both cultures.  

You might also recognize the restaurant from Sex and the City.  This is where Carrie met her boyfriends ex-girlfriend in the series' finale.  

Louis XV style armchairs.

The restaurant area is small, but downstairs is the bar with more booth and table seating and room for about 20 at the bar.  In the evenings, the cocktail menu takes the lead and entices people from all over the world to try their signature Kong Martini or a Hinata, a cocktail with puréed peaches, saki, and guava juice.  

Caipiroska:  Vodka, lime, red berry purée

The menu provides many options depending on your taste buds.  The entrées ranged in price from 15 euros to 25 euros and the plats anywhere from 25 euros to 45 euros.  

I had the filet with frites, and although the frites weren't crispy as my English counterparts would have liked, I quite enjoyed them.  The steak was perfectly cooked and served with a little jus that had just enough kick to it.  

I would recommend Kong if you're looking for a unique place to have lunch, or to impress a friend...I can't say the service was up to par (but then again...we are in France) and the restaurant could use a few updates, but overall a good experience.  

If you're a SATC fan this please is certain to please, and if not the kitschy décor is enough to keep you spinning for awhile.  

Kong

Metro: Pont Neuf

1, rue du Pont Neuf

Paris 75001