An Evening with Davé

Last week, while our friends from Chicago and NY were in town, we were treated to a night out with Davé. It’s a person. It’s a restaurant. It’s a treat. Not for the food however. Rather, you visit this star of the fashion world more for the ecletic company.

Jamie, a regular visitor to Paris, had been telling us of this exclusive Chinese restaurant up the street. With the likes of Uma Thurman, David Bowie and Tobey McGuire visiting this red velour palace, it’s quite the experience to enjoy an unusual spring roll of fried pork wrapped in lettuce and mint in the corner while you scan for stars. But the real scene stealer of the night was Davé.

Upon entering his restaurant, he greeted us with wet kisses – especially Jamie who he seems quite fond of. It was uphill from there. With no specific menu, you advise Davé of your likes and dislikes. He scribbles a few items on a scratch pad, throws some recommendations your way, and heads back to the kitchen to download our choices to his sister. Afterwards, he returns to share opinions on the current state of fashion as well as Leo DiCaprio’s need to focus less attention on his eyes and more on the contortion of his lower face muscles – all while hand feeding us remnants of four types of steamed potstickers.

Unfortunately, having arrived at 8:00 p.m. and just after fashion week commenced, we shared the room with a Chanel office party and two unknowns sitting by the window. So no star sightings for us (which isn’t a surprise since fame seems to elude me at every turn). But with the absence of Hollywood came the ability for us to spend more quality time with Davé.

So after a full night of decent food and Hollywood stories, including Davé’s assessment that he hasn’t seen a face like Chris’ since Bruce Willis, we said our goodbyes. As customary in France and the gay community, we exchanged kisses. But a few of us received a bit more. Davé gave Jamie a pinch, Chris collected a touch of saliva and I walked away with two Davé dinner plates to remember our evening. I consider them our calling card to return soon. And return we will. I’m ready for my close-up Mr. Deville.