This former workers’ co-op already had a club, a live music café, and an exhibition space… all it was missing was a proper rooftop. Now it’s got one! After ten years of major renovations – including the addition of a striking metal staircase – La Bellevilloise has unveiled its new rooftop, the Toit de la Bellevilloise, complete with a plush panorama.
The holiday-home-style decor – a mix of driftwood, a fountain, potted plants, and even a giant globe – fits right in with the laid-back, boho vibe of both the place and its regulars. Snag one of the deckchairs along the railing and you’ll enjoy a classy view: the bell tower of Notre-Dame-de-la-Croix de Ménilmontant in the foreground, and the Eiffel and Montparnasse towers rising out of the sea of rooftops beyond. No doubt about it – it’s stunning up there.
Don’t expect cutting-edge mixology in your glass, though. The drinks are solid enough – though they’d benefit from better ice to avoid too much dilution. There’s the mellow Hibiscus Heat Margarita with tequila, hibiscus-infused mezcal, triple sec and grapefruit, or the floral Bramble Cloud made with gin, elderflower liqueur and lemon, topped with a blackberry foam. As for wine, the list sticks to organic bottles, like a Coteaux-du-Vendômois from Domaine Brazilier or a natural French red from the Joyons co-op.
When we visited, the kitchen had already run out of cheese and charcuterie boards – but they promised more elaborate dishes were on the way. Booking ahead is highly recommended.