For more than a month, the Fluctuat Nec Mergitur seems abandoned.
Behind the bay windows, no trace of the counter and benches of the American-style pizzeria.
But only debris, messy stacked tables, ladders, and piles of bags scattered around.
In this building that looks like a gas station, only vestiges of what appeared to be a restaurant: an old menu and an ice cream freezer.
A closure which does not fail to worry local residents.
And for good reason.
The establishment created by the City of Paris when it redesigned the Place de la République has experienced numerous mishaps since its opening on March 4, 2013. And in particular a fire, in 2015. Two managers have succeeded one another.
In December 2021, it was the SOS Group which closed its doors, due in particular to the Covid-19 crisis but also to the delicate establishment of the business in the eyes of its manager, Mathieu Taugourdeau.
This one complaining about the repeated demonstrations on the Place de la République and the consumers who struggle to find their habits there.
The café was taken over in 2022 by the Fa Dong group, and its manager Dongxiao Chen, after a call for projects launched by the City of Paris.
“So this affair is cursed?
», Says an Internet user on X, formerly Twitter.
“It’s not going to close at all”
However, on the front, a simple note signed by the Fluctuat Nec Mergitur team is intended to be reassuring: “The establishment is closed for beautification.
Creation of a kitchen to melt your taste buds, a beautiful warm room to welcome you and more if you like.
Opening in early spring.
Looking forward to seeing you again.
See you soon.
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“It’s just under construction.
It is not going to close at all, it is the manager who undertook to renovate the restaurant,” confirms Alexandra Cordebard, the mayor of the 10th arrondissement of Paris.
She assures that the restaurant will reopen in the coming weeks.
“Towards the end of the month a priori,” she continues.
The restaurant will therefore have a makeover, swapping its American decor for a new “jungle” theme.
The café will no longer offer pizzas, but greener menus.
“The menu will be more in keeping with the spirit of the neighborhood, with lots of salads, lots of fresh produce, and quite a few vegetarian options,” rejoices Alexandra Cordebard.
Fast food, but fresher than the pizzas that were offered.
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