Today we look at the 10362 Parisian Cafe, first in the latest ICONS subtheme, Restaurants of the World. This set raised some controversy when it was revealed because of its low profile and closed back, in a world where so many sets either occupy a full 32×32 plate or open up at the back like a doll house. So, is this an exciting new direction for LEGO sets – reaching for a new casual audience, with limited display space? Or is there something for the established AFOL as well? Thanks to the LEGO Group for sending this set out for review: all opinions are my own.

Let’s take a closer look. Along the way, we will gain a few insights from Designer Hoang Huy Dang, who I had the chance to talk with at a round table discussion about the set.