Far from Alpine chalets and traditional family meals, raclette and fondue are enjoying a real renaissance. These emblematic winter dishes are available in atypical and trendy places, mixing rustic gastronomy and festive evenings. DJ sets, dancing atmosphere, and buzz on TikTok: long confined to family meals, these winter essentials are establishing themselves as the new stars of convivial outings.
Eat or dance, why choose?
With the reopening of the Richemont “Hot Spot”, the famous brand of raclette cheese is once again offering an original experience this year. Located in the city, this place revisits traditional raclette. “Prepare yourself for a unique raclette experience, as gourmet as it is festive,” announces their website.
The concept? Cheese for dinner, and party to digest, until 5 a.m., Thursday to Saturday. A formula that dusts off the classic image of raclettes with friends or family.
For its part, “Le Refuge des Fondues”, a Parisian institution, is also riding this festive wave. Well known for its warm atmosphere, the restaurant has exploded on TikTok, attracting a new, young and festive clientele. “During the service, with the music, people sing and dance. We just need to be careful with the stoves placed on the tables. It’s not a nightclub, but it has a real atmosphere,” says Tiana, co-manager of the restaurant.
Le Refuge des Fondues: between innovative concept and respect for traditions
Since its opening in 1966, “Le Refuge des Fondues” has seduced people with its simple concept. Here, no surprises: a unique menu for €30, tables pushed together (which you have to step over to sit down), and wine served in baby bottles, an original idea born to avoid breaking glasses .
Tiana says with amusement: “It’s been like this since 1966, but today, with social networks and notoriety, everyone thinks it’s a new concept. However, Janine, the founder, would never have imagined that her restaurant would create such a buzz more than 50 years later! “.
And yet, the “TikTok effect” is there. “We see young people in their twenties arrive, elegant and well-dressed, who come to live the fondue experience,” explains Lucy. But this new clientele does not erase the regulars from another era. “We also receive older tourists, delighted to find this restaurant that they discovered 20 or 30 years ago and to which they return with nostalgia,” she adds. A mix of generations and atmospheres which reflects the timeless charm of this place where tradition and modernity successfully intersect.
Combining innovation and authenticity
Despite its immense success and the enthusiasm of tourists, Le Refuge des Fondues remains faithful to its values. “We are proud of our fondue. Our goal is to offer quality cheese, not to become a simple concept restaurant for tourists,” insists Tiana.
What if these new cheese restaurants made it possible to feel lighter after bingeing and not end up straight in bed with loose back teeth? By transforming raclette and fondue into festive and friendly experiences, they are above all creating a new way to enjoy these winter classics. But be careful: unbuttoning your pants to breathe is okay at home, on the dance floor, it’s immediately riskier!