Stepping through the doors of L'Épicentre in Tullins is like discovering a place where it's easy to linger. People come to have a coffee, lunch, a concert, or simply a chat. And often, they extend their visit a little longer.
During the day, the atmosphere is calm. Some work over coffee, others exchange a few words or meet for lunch. In the evening, the place changes pace. Concerts, discussions, and shared meals create a more lively atmosphere.
Three words to describe the Epicenter?
KINDNESS – CURIOSITY – TRANSMISSION
The name was not chosen at random. In an earthquake, the epicenter is the point from which the waves originate.
Florent uses this image to designate a place designed to promote encounters, exchanges of ideas and cultural initiatives.
Exhibitions, concerts, theatre, workshops, bar and restaurant coexist in the same space, open to different audiences.
« People sometimes think it's a very intellectual place. But not at all. The main thing is to meet people. »
From an international to a local project
Originally from Perpignan, Florent Baltaro is a network engineer by training. He then worked in marketing at HP in Eybens, in an international environment.
His professional career has led him to collaborate with major companies such as Microsoft, Google and Facebook, and to work in several countries, from Silicon Valley to Tokyo, via Australia and Mexico.
Then, over time, a different desire appears: that of creating more connections around him.
« I still had fifteen years of work ahead of me, but I wanted to meet the people around me. At 49, he decided to change career paths.
A project born from an attachment to the place
The story of the Epicentre begins long before its opening.
In 2001, Florent discovered an establishment in Tulle then called "Le Gribouille". It had a restaurant, concerts and a friendly atmosphere which immediately impressed him.
« I thought to myself: if one day I change my life, this is where I would like to do it »
A few years later, when the town hall launched a call for projects to take over the site, he decided to go for it. After a year and a half of preparation, the Epicentre opened its doors.
Simple and friendly cuisine
Initially, L'Épicentre was a pie shop. Today, the cuisine has evolved along with the space. Florent, a self-taught pastry chef, offers dishes inspired by hearty, home-style cooking. From the moment you step inside, the aromas evoke home-cooked meals. Here, the food is primarily a part of the experience, enhancing moments of sharing.
A place deeply rooted in local life…
and which continues to evolve
L'Épicentre works with local producers, cultural associations, the youth center, and artists' collectives. For Florent, this local focus has been part of the project from the beginning: to participate in the life of the community and create a place open to everyone.
Over time, the Epicentre has found its audience, including regulars, artists, and passing visitors. What touches me the most is when people arrive… and stay. »
A new terrace is in the works, opening hours are expected to be extended, and new projects are being considered, such as a freely accessible piano or artisanal ice cream. L'Épicentre continues to evolve, driven by new ideas and encounters.
« The whole world at your doorstep "That's how Florent sums up his project today. A way of reminding people that you don't always need to go far to meet people, discover artists or share good times."
A quote dear to Florent:
Anyone who has not seen the road at dawn between two rows of trees, fresh and alive, does not know what hope is.
If you're not yet familiar with the Epicentre in Tullins…
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The Epicenter Partner offer
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