Consider this beloved brasserie the Rick’s Cafe of Nancy: the Excelsior is where everyone shows up – at one time or another. A stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture that evokes the glories of the Belle Époque, the Excelsior is a celebration of “l’art de vivre” – at every hour of the day.
Built in 1911, the luxurious brasserie was a testament to the principles of L’Ecole de Nancy with Art Nouveau facades by Lucien Weissenburger, stained glass windows by Jacques Gruber, furniture from Atelier Majorelle, and chandeliers and copper sconces by Daum Glassworks, with the later addition of an Art Deco staircase by Jean Prouvé. In other words, the Excelsior is nothing less than a celebration of the principles espoused by Nancy’s greatest artists and architects who believed in the marriage of art, nature, and industry.
With a reputation for festive parties and late-night soirees, the Excelsior was the birthplace of Nancy’s Jazz Festival – and today, the animated atmosphere at the Excelsior embodies the gracious hospitality of Nancy.
The cuisine at the Excelsior is a mixture of traditional brasserie specialties with Lorraine influences. A raw seafood bar at the Excelsior’s entrance is a reminder of the ocean’s bounty; oysters are fresh and delicious – and particularly with Champagne.
When in Nancy, do as the locals do: celebrate life at the Excelsior.
LINK: The Excelsior
