Relationships forged around a communal table
The story aboutMagazine
14 October 2024
Our first communal table on Rue Dansaert in Brussels was made out of wood recovered from the floors of Belgian trains that had been taken out of service. Those simple planks became a tradition. Today, this same rough, reclaimed wood continues to bring rustic comfort to our restaurants, and the communal tables have become our centerpieces. We believe that the community is what nurtures, inspires, and feeds the soul. Our tables are long enough for all to fit and narrow enough for all to talk; they are where friends reconnect, and new friendships, relationships, and career paths are forged over the shared appreciation of delicious food and good company. For every new table, the old wood is planed and sanded until it feels completely smooth, and the surface only gets better after years of guests’ hands touching it and hosts cleaning it.
A Place for Connection
At Le Pain Quotidien, the communal table is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a symbol of our values and a testament to our commitment to fostering community. Each table tells a story, not just of its origins from the old Belgian trains but of the countless conversations and connections it has witnessed. It's where strangers become friends, where ideas are exchanged, and where the simplicity of sharing a meal becomes a profound experience.
Sustainability in Action
Our dedication to using recycled wood reflects our broader commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment. By repurposing materials, we not only reduce waste but also bring a piece of history into every dining experience. This approach aligns with our philosophy of serving food that is both nourishing and environmentally conscious, ensuring that every meal is a step toward a more sustainable future.
While our roots are in Brussels, the tradition of the communal table has expanded globally with each new restaurant opening. No matter where you are in the world, stepping into a restaurant means you’ll find a familiar table waiting to welcome you. It’s a constant in our ever-evolving journey, a reminder of the importance of community and the shared human experience.
Crafting Memories, One Meal at a Time
The beauty of our communal tables lies in their ability to bring people together. Each meal shared creates a tapestry of memories, enriched by the diverse stories and backgrounds of our guests. Whether you’re a regular visitor or a first-time guest, the table invites you to take a seat, share a moment, and create your own story within the Le Pain Quotidien family.
In essence, our communal tables are more than just places to eat; they are the heartbeats of our restaurants, echoing with laughter, conversation, and the simple joy of breaking bread together. So, next time you find yourself at Le Pain Quotidien, remember: you’re not just sitting at a table; you’re becoming a part of a legacy of connection and community.
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Our tartines
One slice of bread… and countless variations…. The slices of our handmade 2kg bread serve as the canvas for a myriad of seasonal ingredients. They come together to become our tartines, the Belgian take on the sandwich. Other than the closed-faced sandwich, a tartine is an open-faced version popular in Belgium. At once simple and elegant, our tartines bring taste to the table and delight to the palate. Did you know the word tartine etymologically stems from the old French, diminutive of tarte (tart)? The word tartiner in French literally means “to spread”; in our case: to spread butter, cheese, and ingredients on a slice of sourdough bread.
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Belgian Hot chocolate and hand warmers
When our founder, Alain Coumont, was a young boy in Belgium, he went to his “grandmère’s” house every Wednesday afternoon where she greeted him with a small bowl of steaming hot chocolate. Alain cupped his hands around it, letting the warmth seep into his body and chase away winter’s frigid chill. As a chef, he carried the memory of that warmth to the tables of Le Pain Quotidien. To this day, simple bowls still stir memories of a child’s delight and still carry warmth to our friends. Whether it’s in the form of piping hot chocolate or some organic tea, you’ll receive this same welcome with our wide, round bowls. Hold it in your hands and feel at ease.
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Welcome homeLe Pain Quotidien means "the daily bread". And to us, that means everything. It’s much more than mere sustenance; it’s a way of life.
Simple. Fresh. Honest.
Our dishesOur menu celebrates natural, honest ingredients, prepared freshly every day. And at the heart of it all is the bread that brings everything together.