Michelin-starred chef Raphael Regoopens the doors of his double Parisian restaurant Oka Fogo, designedand decorated by architect, Arnaud Behzadi. At the heart of theproject was the desire to combine the authenticity and expertise ofthe Brazilian chef with a contemporary aesthetic. Arnaud Behzadi'smeticulous selection of natural materials, including wood and marble,creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in which to enjoy a meal.
Located on the ground floor of a beautiful Haussmann building in the17th arrondissement, one will be charmed by the surprising contrastbetween the stone of the original building and the Jatoba wood façadeof the establishment.
The conceptual restaurant is divided into two main rooms: the first, Oka,literally "house" in Tupi, accommodates 16 covers and is brought to life by therhythm of the connecting kitchen. The second room, Fogo, literally "fire", seats 40and shares the space with the grill and bar. In each of these two rooms, one canadmire two huge frescoes created by artist Florence Bamberger, whose universe isinspired by that of contemporary Brazilian artist José Francisco Borgès, but also walllights designed by Cathy Crinon.
For other occasions, the establishment also offers more intimate spaces: an alcovethat can accommodate up to 6 people, and a tasting room with a vaulted ceilingreminiscent of a cellar, in which the establishment offers over 5,000 wine and champagne references.
In this universe dominated by woody notes, Arnaud Behzadi recalls the refined fusion of Brazilian and French cuisine, while giving the restaurant a new, modern and sophisticated design. Fascinated by Brazilian decorative arts and design, Arnaud Behzadi was inspired by the world of architect Sergio Rodrigues , and imported a series of signature chairs to complete the decor. A good way to fascinate food lovers, but also to delight design enthusiasts.
FLORENCE BAMBERGER
For this project, the artist Florence Bamberger created two huge frescoes, bringing to life the ceiling of Oka and the walls of Fogo.Responding to Arnaud Behzadi's invitation, she drew inspiration from the world of Borgès, while adding her own unique touch. With curiosity andgreat skill, she transcribes the lively spirit of Raphael Rego. For Oka, she pays vibrant homage to the chef's Brazilian attachment, depicting on the ceiling a whimsical interpretation of the fauna, flora andartifacts of Brazilian culture. Amphoras, jaguar, anaconda, tamanoir, capivara, coati roux, toucan and ara hyacinthe intermingle, adding a uniquevisual experience to the gustatory adventure. For Fogo, she reinterprets Manet's Déjeuner sur l'herbe, this time echoing French cultural heritage. Atrue dialogue between the two cultures that have forged Raphael Rego's personality.
Team:
Design: Arnaud Behzadi
Photography: Claire Israel
