Personal Favorites in Paris

After more than ten visits over the past years, I have picked up a good amount of favorite spots in this fantastic city of Paris. Here, I share a few of them with you. If you have any questions, feel free to leave me a comment.

Where to begin?

TASTE: Ladurée
This legendary tea room and pastry shop brand sells fifteen thousands macarons every day, for one reason only - they are simply the best (well, those from Pierre Hermès are not that bad either...)
There are four shops throughout Paris (plus one in Versailles and one at Roissey), of which the one in 16 Rue Royale (Metro: Place de Madelaine) is the oldest. Here, decadent Parisiens have indulged  fine bakery since 1862. Must visit!
Their website is really sweet, too!

SEE: La Tour Eiffel

A classic monument of beauty. The tower is best viewed from the end of Rue de l'Université - away from all the Asian hordes of tourists. This is where this photo is taken. Very romantic, too!

SHOP: Vintage at Free'P'Star - 20 Rue de Rivoli (Metro: St. Paul)

This is the best of the three Free'P'Star secondhand stores. If you enjoy treasure hunting, this one is a gem! Here is where I found my ostrich leather handbag and a very unique leather sweater (pictured below), priced twenty and ten euros respectively. 

 

Free'P'Star

Vintage leather sweater - too cool to be left in the shop!

Palace Vintage  - 40 Rue de Rivoli

This relatively new boutique is jammed with vintage designer clothing, modern secondhand stuff, shoes, bags etc etc. The woman behind it all is really sweet, especially if you compliment her store:) I found some really nice items here: An oversized sweater from Sonia Rykiel (80 euros) and a flowery silk tunic (20 euros). Both in mint condition.

Come on Eileen - 16/18 Rue des Taillandiers

A ten minutes walk towards la Bastille you will find another vintage haven. This is also fully equipped with treasures from chic French ladies' wardrobes. Well worth a visit!

EAT CHIC: Pershing Hall - 49 Rue Pierre Charron

If you want to dine in style in the terrace of the chic hotel, Pershing Hall, this is the place to be (and to be seen). Make sure you order “L’assiette Pershing“, the perfect dish including panko prawns, nem, black cod, foie gras, scallop carpaccio and so much more. Yum!

Very elegant atmosphere. Dress up!

Le dish at Pershing Hall

NIGHT OUT: L'ARC - 12 Rue de Presbourg

Well after midnight, it is time to dance your butt off at one of Paris' many clubs. I always have a good time at L'ARC, which is located just ahead of L'Arc de Triomphe. A trendy, yet friendly crowd, contemporary decor, and eclectic music that will undoubtedly put you in a dancing mood. Could you ask for more?

Approaching L'Arc...

SUNDAY BRUNCH IN MARAIS - Le Loire dans la Theiere, 3 rue de Rosiers

Don't be put of by the line of people outside this popular Marais café. Once you're in, it is worth the wait. The relaxed atmosphere, its inviting armchairs and mouth watering tarts will soon want you to export the whole place to you hometown.

Afterwards, spend a few hours wandering in the cosy neighborhood and enjoy the Sunday open boutiques - like a true Parisian!

That's all for now, folks! I could go on forever, but I am almost falling asleep...

Bonne nuit!