Rémy is the founder and co-founder of some of the most talked-about venues of the last five years, including A Bar with Shapes for a Name, Bar Nouveau, and his most recent Paris project, Abstract. His work is unapologetically high-concept, with design, intent and philosophy baked into every decision.

This is one of the most thought-provoking and, at times, intellectually demanding conversations I’ve recorded so far. Together we dig into the fundamentals of art, creativity, motivation and human nature, using drinks and bars as the jumping-off point.

We discuss whether drinks can truly be considered art, why it can sometimes be useful to make guests feel uncomfortable, how Rémy develops new cocktails, and why children might actually help us understand flavour better. We explore where the line between art and craft begins to blur, whether legacy really matters, what technology might offer hospitality, and how it could just as easily threaten it. There’s also a full lowdown on all of Rémy’s venues, plus a wider discussion on whether bars can still play a meaningful role in society.

Whether this is your first episode or you’ve been listening for a while, welcome to 2026. I’ve got an exceptional run of guests lined up over the coming weeks, so make sure you’re subscribed. Missing out would be a pretty poor way to start the year.

Links

Rémy Savage (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/remysavage
A Bar with Shapes for a Name: https://www.abarwithshapesforaname.com
Bar Nouveau: https://www.instagram.com/barnouveauparis
Abstract Paris: https://www.instagram.com/abstract.paris