Following the last service on January 13 of this year, Le Gavroche is auctioning off its history. Over 100 lots will be up for sale by Christie's during the online auction from April 10 to 24. Works of art, wine bottles, paintings, and porcelain, all bearing witness to the journey that began in 1957 and lasted a remarkable 57 years, will be the items participants can acquire.
Le Gavroche's Wine Cellar
Founded in 1967 by brothers Michel and Albert Roux, the restaurant has been a stronghold of French haute cuisine and more. "Since its founding year, Le Gavroche has built an enviable reputation as one of the best restaurants globally, not only for its exceptional and extensive wine list," said Tim Triptree, Director of the Wine Department at Christie's International.
Among the labels highlighted by Christie's are renowned names in French winemaking: Domaine de la Romanée Conti Grand Cru 2013, estimated to sell for between £9,000 and £12,000 (approximately €10,500 – €14,000), magnum of Domaine Bonneau du Martray Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2017, Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé Musigny Vieilles Vignes 2010, and the 2002 vintage of Le Mesnil de Salon with an estimate ranging from £700 to £900.
Not Just Wine
What will be the winning bid for the sign of the first London restaurant to receive a Michelin star in 1974? The set base price is £1,000 (around €1,170). In addition to wines, various restaurant items will be offered for sale. Among them, a painting depicting a street urchin, a character from Victor Hugo's 1862 novel Les Misérables.
An iconic item for the venue as it gives the restaurant its name, estimated to be between £10,000 and £15,000 (approximately €11,700 – €17,500). "Unfortunately, we couldn't find a place for these iconic pieces in our other restaurants and businesses, but I am delighted to know that our beloved guests can enjoy a part of Le Gavroche in their homes," said Michel Roux Jr.