Maison Delano
My first stay here, and it was pure French elegance. Perfectly placed in the 8th (basically the 1st) for walking to designer shops, the Tuileries, and the Louvre, yet tucked on a quiet side street away from the chaos. Our Prestige Room felt spacious, though the bathroom design with huge vessel sinks with no counter space was less than ideal (pictured here). Service was slow at times, but the style, location, and overall vibe easily won me over. And yes, there was a full length mirror and ample closet space. A girls dream. Would stay again in a heartbeat. Quick room tour here.
Le Bon Georges
A quintessential Parisian bistro that feels timeless in the best way. I loved the perfectly cooked steak frites and the chocolate mousse for dessert. Also the wine menu was the size of a phonebook. Loved the charm, neighborhood and overall vibe. This felt the least touristy out of all the spots and I loved it.
Girafe
The terrace is pure Paris glamour, the seafood is as fresh as it gets, and the vibe is effortlessly chic. We celebrated Merritt’s birthday lunch here and it was so good! Had a reservation for the patio and we had the best view of the Eiffel Tower. We loved the lobster spaghetti, yellowtail sushimi, tuna tartar, artichoke salad, dover sole, and french fries.
Loulou
Dinner here feels like stepping into a Parisian dream, with the Louvre gardens as your backdrop. The atmosphere is chic yet relaxed, perfect for a lingering evening under the stars. We shared the green been salad, truffle pizza, lobster spaghetti, and fries. Rich, decadent, and worth every bite.
Cafe Charlot
My new go-to for a casual yet oh-so-Parisian lunch in the Marais. The menu is classic bistro fare, but it’s the lively street corner setting that makes it special. I enjoyed a croque madame, fries, crisp glass of sancerre, and prime people-watching. Perfection.
Hotel Costes
We celebrated Helen’s birthday dinner here and it never disappoints. I’ve been for lunch previously and both times got the lobster spaghetti because it’s just so good. If you can’t tell, I love that dish. We also had the green been salad, fries, spring rolls, dumplings, and yellowtail.
Cafe de Flore
Brunch at this legendary café is pure Paris nostalgia. From the art deco interiors to the impeccably dressed waiters, it’s a slice of history. The salmon and eggs were buttery and fluffy, and the coffee strong enough to fuel a full day of wandering Saint-Germain.
La Fontaine de Mars
Warm, inviting, and steeped in tradition, this Left Bank gem is all about comforting French classics. I had the steak frites (yet again) and it was divine. This spot feels like a local secret, even though it’s beloved by travelers and Parisians alike, so make sure you have a reservation or get there early because there was a line prior to opening.
Cafe Kitsune
A chic little pause between strolls through the Tuileries. Sleek, minimal, and effortlessly stylish, it’s perfect for an iced matcha or flat white while watching the park’s quiet rhythm unfold. We stopped here on our way to the Louvre early in the morning and there was no line.
Rosewood de Crillon - Bar Les Ambassadeurs
A toast to old-world elegance. The bar glows with gilded charm, and every drink feels like an occasion. This was such a vibe. We actually went twice because we loved it so much. They had a live band late one night which was SO fun. The espresso martinis were perfection.
Hotel Costes
We tucked into the inside bar, all dark wood, low lighting, and moody allure. It’s the kind of place where time slows, conversations deepen, and the cocktails arrive as if by instinct.
Rue Saint Honore
Paris’ runway in street form. Every window is a temptation, from heritage houses to the newest cult names. It’s impossible to leave empty-handed. I snagged a few things at Hermes, but no not a bag.
Champs Elysees
Grand, iconic, and unapologetically over the top. Lined with flagship boutiques, it’s as much about the view of the Arc de Triomphe as the designer bags.
Le Bon Marche
The department store of my dreams. Beautifully curated, elegantly quiet, and home to everything from luxury fashion to a decadent food hall downstairs.
Vintage Shopping in The Marais
A treasure hunt through cobblestone streets. Here, vintage gems and quirky boutiques sit alongside stylish cafés—perfect for mixing shopping with a little people-watching. Open Dressing has always been my favorite spot and I got a few gems again this trip. There are great vintage stores if you wander around Rue de Turenne and side streets.
Antique/Vintage Shopping
Paul Bert Serpette is the ultimate antique market experience. Rows upon rows of art, furniture, and curiosities you never knew you needed. Each stall feels like stepping into a different Parisian era. Right across was Les Merveilles de Babellou which was another incredible vintage designer store. Give yourself plenty of time to wander the alleys and find small treasures.
The Louvre
This was one of the main reasons for the trip. Merritt wanted to see this exhibit which was during her birthday. She and I went early; our tickets were for 9am and we got in line around 830 which was perfect. We got in immediately and essentially had the whole wing where the exhibit was to ourselves. It was stunning with about 65 pieces from numerous eras thoughtfully curated within the decorative arts wing. I know the exhibit is almost done, but if you are there, please check it out! I shared a short video here!
