Savoring Paris: A Guide to Culinary Charms & Chic Retreats

Get lost in one of Paris' many Neighborhoods:

• Le Marais (3rd and 4th arrondissements) is my favorite neighborhood for all of my shopping enthusiasts! It has charming medieval streets, beautifully preserved manions, stylish boutiques, and a lively atmosphere. After a day of shopping, sit at one of the many cafes to indulge in a drink outside for people watching.

• The Latin Quarter is situated on the Left Bank of the Seine in the 5th arrondissement. For book lovers, walk down the book-filled streets of Rue Mouffetard where you can find its lively markets, independent bookstores, and quaint cafés. I love finding a boulangerie and cheese shop and picnicking at the Luxembourg Gardens.

• Montmartre is perched atop a hill in the 18 arrondissement where you can find the famous Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur and stunning views of the city. It has a Bohemian charm like no other and was once the heart of the artistic community, attracting famous artists like Picasso and Van Gogh.

Find some treasure in one of Paris' many Flea Markets:

• Les Puces de Montreuil is less famous than its older brother up north in St-Ouen, but where the locals riffle for antiques nowadays, mostly because it’s off the beaten tourist track. Note: Open Saturday through Monday 7am-7.30pm

• With 3,000+ traders, the Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen is generally thought to be the biggest ‘flea market’ in the world. It may be a bit overwhelming, but spend the morning exploring and finding unique treasures. Note: Open Monday 11am-5pm / Saturday and Sunday 9am-6pm

• Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves is smaller and more friendly than St-Ouen. The market at Vanves is appreciated for its more manageable size. Note: Open Saturday and Sunday 7am-2pm

Indulge in some local produce for a picnic or maybe take a cooking class with a market tour:

• Marché des Enfants Rouges is located in the Marais and is Paris' oldest covered market. It offers a variety of fresh produce, international foods, and is great for lunch with their ready-to-eat meals.

• For more of an upscale market head to Marché Saint-Germain in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area. This is where you go to find the high-quality food items, like fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, and pastries.

• For a quieter more local feel check out Marché des Grandes-Carrières in Montmartre. You can find a range of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and baked goods. Definitely a more local experience with fewer tourists.

Day Trips

• Champagne is located just over 1 hour from Paris. Visit the famous French Champagne houses and taste some bubbly while taking in the beautiful countryside.

• For a taste of medieval history, a trip to the Loire Valley offers enchanting castles and beautiful countryside. Approximately 2 hours from Paris by train.

Fun Lunch or Dinner Spots:

• For foie gras lovers, Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie is my favorite French bistro with all of the classics. They have foie gras prepared in every way imaginable, classic escargot and french favorites. It's small and quaint and not to be missed!

• Clamato is a very cool spot that has amazing seafood dishes. If you can't get a table, eat at the bar!

• Le Petit Celestin is a great local bistro with the best tartare and steak frites.

For a drink or two:

• Frenchie Bar a Vins is across the street from Frenchie, but great for a drink and small bites. Be prepared, it will be crowded!

• Septime La Cave is the wine bar of the famous Septime and a great alternative if you can't snag a reservation.

• The Hemingway Bar at the Ritz is my go-to nostalgic and classy bar where Hemingway was known to frequent. Oh, and they have amazing cocktails!

• If you want the views, go to Tortuga for a great rooftop spot for drinks and epic views of the city

• Bar Sur le Toit is a cute new rooftop cocktail bar in Montmartre

Worthy Michelin Star Splurges:

• Frenchie is a 1-Michelin star restaurant serving seasonal French dishes and does a blind tasting menu. A personal favorite and amazing overall experience!

• Substance is another 1-Michelin* restaurant with a top-notch Champagne selection and multi-course meal options. They have a special 3-course menu available only during lunch!

• Septime is the trendy 2-Michelin star restaurant offering modern French cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.

• For an over-the-top and ornate experience, Le Meurice Alain Ducasse is a must. From the dishes to the insanely ornate decor, it is an experience that will for sure leave a lasting impression.