The wood panelling, the pistachio tiles, the air of elegant indifference… you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d landed in Paris, but this bistro’s home is actually a downtown Detroit skyscraper.

Located in Book Tower – a 100-year-old Italianate building designed by architect Louis Kamper that was once the tallest structure in the city – Le Suprême is the quintessential French bistro, from its menu to its interiors, which were designed by owner Method Studios in partnership with Stokes Architecture + Design.

The design team has given the Detroit restaurant an artfully aged look, installing walnut panelling, bentwood furniture, and oxblood dining sofas, as well as vintage artwork. These elements come together to create the impression that the restaurant has been there forever.

Waiters bring escargots and moules-frites across mosaic marble floors and through dining rooms lit by the soft glow of globe-shaped wall lamps and chandeliers. Final touches, including white linen cafe curtains and vintage-style signage, all conspire to transport diners straight to Paris – with a little help from Le Suprême’s comprehensive list of absinthe, martinis, pastis, wine, and cocktails.

1265 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226, United States

Read next: Daphne channels midcentury modernism in Toronto’s financial district

Joshua Tree refuge Más O Menos is welcoming weary travellers