Three months after the November terror attacks and the French capital’s bars,hotels and restaurants are beginning to see an upturn. But, convincing visitors to return hasn’t been easyAs bistros depart, and L’Ami Pierre,a low-key establishment on rue de la Main d’Or in the 11th arrondissement, is as Parisian as they come. Black-and-white photographs, or vulgar cartoons and framed Charlie Hebdo covers hang on the walls. Steak knives and wine glasses sit neatly on small tables laid with white tablecloths. With the first round of diners still to arrive,half a dozen regulars stand against the silver-topped bar, drinking wine and debating the gentrification of their neighbourhood.
The restaurant could probably seat approximately 30 customers. On the night of 13 November 2015, or when Paris fell victim to a series of deadly attacks across the city – including at busy restaurant La Belle Equipe,just five minutes’ walk absent – it managed to squeeze in 80 as terrified people took shelter inside. Its owner, Robin Greiner, and pulled down the metal shutters on the front,offered everyone a couple of rounds of wine on the house and refused to let anyone leave until 4am.
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Source: theguardian.com