Paris Part One
Paris Part 1! Allow me to feel sorry for myself for one minute as I spent hours writing up this post and then deleted it. How does that even happen now-a-days? But somehow I managed! Anyway without further delay, I carefully selected my favorite places and must-sees, including my not-so-secret spot for the world's best martini. While it is inevitable and necessary to go to some of the tourist and popular spots such as the Opera Garnier and Cafe de Flore, I also actively tried to seek out lesser known places where actual Parisians went. Let me know what you think and would love any future suggestions.
EAT
Bistro Paul Bert — A classic french bistro with the food executed to perfection. I recommend the steak-frites, sole meunière, coquilles St.-Jacques, and île flottante for dessert.
Daroco — A little off the beaten path, this is located in a beautiful building serving up modern Italian fare. Candlelit, high mirrored ceilings, and handsome waiters serving you in Saint James striped shirts, this feels like a place cool Parisians come to wine and dine.
Hotel Costes — The Hotel Costes is about as sexy as it gets. You are greeted with pomegranate colored velvet couches, floral brocade curtains, rose bouquets so large that if you wrapped your arms around them they wouldn’t touch, bronze candelabras dripping waxy tapers, and their custom signature scent filling the air (available for purchase naturally.) I suggest sitting outside in their garden courtyard. The food is delicious and the cheesecake, cannot, I repeat, cannot be missed.
Cafe Charlot — Located in the heart of the Marais, this bistro is a great spot for lunch or dinner, serving up tasty goodies such as poached eggs, pastas, and unexpectedly a turkey club.
Ralph’s Paris —Ralph Lauren takes Paris! This is a nice place to stop and have lunch in the 7th, where one can enjoy “un hamburger americain” and lobster salad in the stylish outdoor patio of his store.
Cafe de Flore — This famous spot is one of the oldest coffeehouses in Paris, where writers and artists such as regulars Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso spent their time. I love to stop here for an exceptional afternoon chocolat chaud and the people watching.
Next to try : Septime, Frenchies, Holybelly, LouLou's, and La Stresa.
DRINK
Bar Hemingway— A secret bar located in the Hotel Ritz, you must arrive promptly at 6 when the doors open to secure a seat. Allow the legendary bartender Colin Peter Field to persuade you to try his Clean Dirty Martini (they warn you it is the strongest martini you will ever have, trust them, it is) or indulge in one of their other beautifully crafted cocktails, often served with a single stunning rose.
Le Speakeasy — In aim of an after dinner drink, this is a fun and lively place to stop in for a drink and some live music.
SHOP
Merci — A multi-level concept store with a restaurant and two cafes located in the Marais. It has vintage and new clothing finds including modern designers such as Isabel Marant and Comme des Garcons. It also has a top floor of homewares and furniture, as well as a flower shop. A great place to pick up a few gifts.
Astier de Villatte — I love this brand for its one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces crafted out of black terra-cotta clay and finished with their signature white glaze. I always pick up something here for my Mom.
CityPharma — Walking into Citypharma is a unique experience to say the least. You are met with salespeople in white lab coats there to help answer any of your questions. I have never seen so many people thronging for french skincare products! It is a great place to stock up on brands such as Bioderma, La Roche-Posay, Avene, Biafine, and Nuxe. Many of these products you can only get in France.
Sézane — My latest obsession is anything Sézane. Cool, effortless, well-made clothing at reasonable prices. Step inside their store set up to be a chic Parisian apartment an walk out a French girl. They recently opened their first international outpost in NYC, as well as creating a capsule collection in collaboration with Madewell. {My sweater and coat above are from here!}
STAY
Hotel Costes — This is what I think of when I think of what a Paris hotel should look like. Old world France with a modern feel, rooms are beautiful and comfortable, and the restaurant is delicious and atmospheric. Located in the 1st, along the Rue Saint-Honoré, this is a luxury stay.
Pavillion de la Reine — Located in the Marais, this boutique hotel looks charming with its ivy covered facade and elegant interiors. It is located in a courtyard facing the Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris.
Air BNB — I would love to explore renting an Air BNB next time I am in Paris for the flexibility of being able to use a kitchen and having more space. So many pretty apartments available!
DO
Boulevard Raspail Market — On Sundays, vendors set up their goods such as fruit and vegetables, flowers and cheeses. Try some sizzling paella, an onion pancake, or if you’re bold, sample an oyster, cut open for you on the spot.
Parc Monceau — I discovered this public park while walking through the 8th. It was one of my favorite spots lined with wooden park benches, with Parisians soaking up the autumn sun. It has a beautiful bridge, garden, and carousel for all the nearby school children. After a little research, I discovered Monet painted several landscapes of the Parc Monceau and they are on display at The Met in New York.
Dior Exhibit — An in-depth look into the House of Dior, this is a breathtaking exhibition. It explores the history of Christian Dior and the six couturiers who succeeded him. The show includes over 300 couture dresses displayed in visual splendor. A must-see! (Tip: Buy tickets online ahead of time. There are two separate lines for people with tickets, there was still a wait, but much faster than the line for those waiting to buy tickets.) Christian Dior, Couturier du rêve, is on display until January 7, 2018.
Musee Yves Saint Laurent — Just opened, the museum explores the life and work of Yves Saint Laurent. A look at his incredible designs through the decades, as well as a tour of Mr. Laurent’s studio. (Tip: Buy tickets online ahead of time. You have a scheduled time and must show up at the exact time, but there was little to no wait.)
Opera Garnier — Built in 1861, this 1,979 seat opera house is still very much in use today for opera and ballets. Wander through the spectacularly ornate Grand Hall, or take a peak into the opera house for ceilings painted by Chagall.
Other Must’s include : a day trip to Versailles, a visit to theMusee Rodin, a stroll around the Luxembourg Gardens, a boat trip down the Seine, and shopping at the Marche aux Puces Flea Market.
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