Learn French: C'est un bel établissement somptueux, n'est-ce pas ? - It is a beautiful sumptuous establishment, isn't it?

Bel is a special masculine singular form of beau (beautiful). You must use it because the very next word, établissement, starts with a vowel. This change is called vocalic mutation, and it prevents the clashing vowel sounds that you would get from trying to say beau établissement.

Why does bel go before the noun while somptueux goes after?

Most French adjectives, like somptueux (sumptuous), naturally follow the noun. However, a small set of very common adjectives comes before the noun, often remembered by the acronym BANGS (Beauty, Age, Number, Goodness, Size). Because beau falls under Beauty, its mutated form bel precedes établissement.

How do you pronounce the connection between bel and établissement?

You pronounce the consonant L at the end of bel directly into the é of établissement, making it sound almost like a single word. The entire reason the form bel exists is to provide this consonant bridge for a smoother flow.

If there were multiple establishments, would I use bels?