The Parisian Garden Of Hotel D’Angelis Mount Road Madras, 1907 Photo
A rare 1907 photograph of the Parisian Garden of Hotel D’Angelis at Mount Road, Madras (Chennai). Seated on the left is Italian restaurateur Giacomo D’Angelis with his son, Carlos D’Angelis, while another son sits at the adjacent right table.
Masterchef Leon Denis, recognizable with his hand resting over a dagger, is also present, along with the Indian staff of the restaurant. Born in Italy, Giacomo D’Angelis lived in France before moving to England, where he served as chef to the Duke of Buckingham and Chandos. Giacomo D’Angelis accompanied the Duke of Buckingham and Chandos when he became Governor of Madras (1875–1880).
In 1880, he established a small confectionery, Maison Française, on Mount Road. Specializing in authentic French and Italian cakes, pastries, and chocolates. Through determination and hard work, he gained a reputation as a restaurateur and caterer. In 1908, Giacomo expanded his business by opening a hotel and restaurant on the same premises.
Later, he purchased the property and named it Hotel D’Angelis. Located on Mount Road, then a fashionable shopping district for Europeans in Madras. The hotel soon became one of the most prestigious establishments. Its renowned, Parisian Garden Restaurant, part of the Hotel D’Angelis, was celebrated as the finest in South India.
Giacomo D’Angelis was not only a celebrated restaurateur but also an avid engineer and pioneering aviator. It is commonly believed that India’s first flight took place in Allahabad on December 10, 1910. But historical records from Aero magazine (1910) reveal that the actual first flight in India occurred in Madras in March 1910—piloted by Giacomo himself. He passed away in 1919 while abroad, and sadly, his renowned restaurant eventually closed down after changing ownership several times. Click on photo to enlarge.
Did you know – the hotel was the first to have an electric lift, hot water taps, electric fans, imported tiles, an ice-making plant, and cold storage in the city.
From the collection – Raja Ravi Varma Women Themed Paintings, 5 PCs., Street Scene Views Of British Era Madras, 2 Postcards 1900 ., Aerial View of British Bombay In 1936, Old Print.
