Irwin

The story

Irwin Paris: Modern Cuisine by Chef Irwin Durand in the 8th Arrondissement

A Personal Address in the Heart of Paris

Irwin is the first restaurant of chef Irwin Durand, a name that has quietly circulated through some of Paris’s most prestigious kitchens. After formative years alongside chefs like Joël Robuchon at L’Atelier and Guy Savoy at both the Hôtel de la Monnaie and Chiberta, Durand has opened his own table in the 8th arrondissement. The restaurant’s name is a subtle nod to his great-grandmother, Irma, grounding the project in family memory.

The space itself is described as intimate and refined, a deliberate choice in a city of flashy concepts. Durand’s philosophy is one of “cuisine de l’instant” — cooking that responds to the present, built on local, seasonal products and personal recollection.

Menus as Memory

The dining experience is structured around three-, five-, and seven-course menus, each named after a street or place that marked a chapter in the chef’s career. “Mesnil,” “Rue du Bac,” and “Quai de Conti” are not arbitrary titles; they reference his time at specific restaurants and mentors, turning each meal into a narrative of his evolution in gastronomy.

The kitchen brigade, led by chef adjoint Camille Larquemin and pastry chef Tessa Ponzo, brings a collective rigor and creativity to the plates. The team’s shared experience in top-tier establishments is evident in the precision of the modern cuisine served.

An Instant of Recognition

Since opening in April 2025, Irwin has quickly drawn the attention of critics and guides. The restaurant received a Michelin recommendation for 2026, a strong signal for a new address. Coverage from Le Figaro, Food & Wine, and Bloomberg has highlighted the restaurant as one of the most anticipated openings of the year, praising both the chef’s confident debut and the soulful, unpretentious nature of his cooking. At Irwin, the focus remains on the plate — and the story behind it.