The turning point for Lasserre came in 1942 when he acquired a small bistro, which had been built for the World Exhibition of 1937.

Because of the war, the early years proved to be hard and challenging. The shortage of produce required some purchases, such as Jerusalem artichoke salad and carrot Vichy, to be made with ration tickets. Aside from offering a delectable meal with personal service, Lasserre’s bistro also provided refuge to many people of the Resistance.

The rapid rise of the Lasserre House is the result of the extraordinary energy of one man, Rene Lasserre. His inventiveness, his perfection and his ability to make every guest feel at home, has helped to create a gourmet institution in the heart of Paris and has made Lasserre’s dream a reality.

Salavador Dali, Frederic Dard, Romy Schneider and Audrey Hepburn are among the many luminaries who have enjoyed the ambience.

In 1948 the Club de la Casserole was opened with great flourish and success.

Lasserre featured Gala dinners, organized around newly released films, the latest literary offerings or art gallery openings.

Celebrities who were in Paris for these various events stopped at the Club de la Casserole to dine. Marc Chagal, during lunch with Andre Malraux, decided to create the ceiling of the Opera Garnier.