A Star-Studded Farewell: The Unforgettable Legacy of Davé in Paris
A Strolling Gallery of Fame
Once lined with Polaroids capturing unforgettable moments, each image at Davé’s iconic Chinese restaurant was more than a testament to celebrity visits — they were vivid mementos of an era that seamlessly blended fashion, film, and art. The revered establishment nestled on Rue Saint-Roch in Paris, long frequented by luminaries like Serge Gainsbourg, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Kim Kardashian, unfolded its magic for over three decades, capturing the heart of creativity.
The Origin of a Legend
Inspired by the immediacy of Andy Warhol’s Polaroids, Tai “Davé” Cheung embarked on his photographic journey right when Davé opened in 1982. Guided by renowned photographer Jean-Baptiste Mondino, the Polaroids turned from spontaneous snapshots to coveted icons, cherished by the illustrious clientele who filled the room with laughter, warmth, and vibrancy.
The Private Ambience
Davé was a cocoon of privacy and intimacy. As celebrities wandered the dimly lit spaces — occasionally illuminated by the gentle glow of a tropical fish tank — they fostered a unique camaraderie. According to CNN, there was an unspoken bond that held together the night’s revelers, reminiscent of a family gathering where stories whispered through the air and friendships blossomed under the casual ambiance.
An Artistic Tribute: “A Night at Davé”
Honoring this legacy, the recent publication of “A Night at Davé” celebrates those unforgettable nights. Conceived by writers Charles Morin and Boris Bergmann, and released by IDEA, this 115-page art piece immortalizes the vibrancy of a by-gone era. A heartfelt foreword by Sofia Coppola paints a vivid picture of the nights where fashion icons and movie stars intertwined lives under Davé’s ever-watchful lens.
Timeless Memories
The book’s journey reflects Davé’s personal joy revisiting his archives. “I didn’t feel sadness, nostalgia, or regret,” he notes. Instead, it is the purity of memories — stilled moments of joy and beauty — persistently echoing in each Polaroid. As Davé warmly chronicles, “They were very happy because they could see the result immediately.”
The Final Curtain Call
Though the doors of Davé closed seven years ago, the essence of its existence still floats gently through Paris, hurriedly carried on whispers of shared laughter, hushed conversations, and the soft focus of an ever-snapping camera. It was more than a restaurant; it was a sanctuary of stars and stories, where each Polaroid had its own tale to tell, leaving an indelible mark upon the canvas of cultural history.
