Aline Bachelier
18 rue Paul Bert, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Paris
Antique vendor in the Paul Bert section of the Paris Flea Market; custom-made lighting created out of vintage antique tripods and other artifacts; Aline is also a personal antique shopper who will take you to brocantes all over France and Belgium
Apartments Actually
Fabulous rental apartments in the Marais. And Provence, if you're going South.
Appart Cité Corsaire
3 Place de la Croix du Fief, Saint-Malo
My only hesitation in recommending this fabulous place to stay is that it won't be available when I want to go back. Three apartments are available in this great building with a perfect location on a tiny square.
Astier de Villatte
173 rue Saint-Honoré, Paris
; 4 rue de Bourbon-le-Château, Paris
Milky glazed ceramics, made with black terra cotta clay, leaving deliberate imperfections; inspired by 18th and 19th century designs; also the best scented candles with elaborate blends of exotic fragrances
Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville (BHV)
14 rue du Temple,
Paris
Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville, more commonly known as BHV, is the store in Paris where you can buy everything. Not only do they have everything, but they have it in large numbers, and it’s fabulous.
Bergamote Salon de The-et-Creperie
3 Place Jean Chaillon, Saint-Malo
Sit outside across from St. Vincent Cathedral and have a ham and cheese galette and one of many incredible desserts. Sublime.
Closed: Tuesdays
Opening hours: 10:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Bernardaud
27 Avenue Albert Thomas
, Limoges
Porcelain factory founded in 1863, in the renowned porcelain city of Limoges. Guided tours allow visitors to see the elaborate process from start to finish. Fantastic factory store.
Biglove Caffé
30 rue Debelleyme
Cozy Italian restaurant in the Marais. Great cocktails, pasta, pizza (gluten-free!).
Hours 9:00AM - 6:00PM, 7:00PM - 11:00PM
Get there at 7 to queue up!
Bookbinders Design
130 rue du Bac, Paris; 53 rue Vielle du Temple, Paris
Cloth covered notebooks, binders, photo albums, storage boxes made in Sweden- come in a rainbow of colors
Boulangerie de la Cathédrale
1 Rue de Pourpris, Saint-Malo
There's a lot of boulangeries in town - this one is my favorite.
Café Charlot
38 rue de Bretagne
Great traditional café in the Marais. Fantastic breakfast.
Café de Flore
173 boulevard St. Germain, Paris
Open since 1885, one of the oldest and the most prestigious cafés in Paris. Celebrated for its famous clientele in the 1920's and 30's, including Jean Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Art deco interior, with red leather banquettes and polished mahogany, has changed little over the years. It's rival café, across rue St. Benoit, is Café Deux Magots - go to both and see which you prefer.
Cafe L'Ouest
4 Place Chateaubriand, Saint-Malo
Fabulous café in the Place Chateaubriand, across from the Porte St. Vincent. My favorite place for breakfast—homemade croissants, orange pressé, and delicious coffee. Great for lunch and dinner, too! Best moules frites!
Café Le Deux Magots
6 place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
Historical late 19th century Paris café that It once had a reputation as the rendezvous of the literary and intellectual élite in the early 20th century. Famous patrons include Picasso and Hemingway. Rival café to nearby Café de Flore. Go to both and chose your favorite.
Café Le Galion
1 Passage Grande Hermine, 35400 Saint-Malo, France
Don't miss this café with the most unique decor covering every surface and an old school black and white TV on the bar. It's where the locals hang out.
Caravane
19 and 22, rue Saint-Nicolas, 6, rue Pavée, Paris
One of my favorite stores in Paris. Textiles for the home from India and Africa - my favorite is the washed linen in a palette of gorgeous colors. Bedding and upholstered furniture is on one side of the rue St.-Nicolas, and unique dinnerware, table linens, and accessories are on the other side. Be sure to have lunch at Le Square Trousseau while you're in the neighborhood. (The rue Pavée location is in the Marais, another great neighborhood.)
Centre Pompidou
Place Georges Pompidou
Contemporary art museum - closed Tues. Open until 10 pm, so a good thing to do at night.
Château and Musée de Saint-Malo
Port St. Thomas / Place Chateaubriand
The castle of Saint-Malo is the town hall as well as home to the Museum of St-Malo.
On several levels, the museum covers a number of themes including the long maritime history of St-Malo, 19th century writers of which Chateaubriand is the most well known, WWII occupation and the destruction/ reconstruction of the town.
DON'T MISS the panoramic view from the very top!
Citadelle Vauban Hôtel
Le Palais, Belle-Île-en-Mer
One of the most unique places I've ever stayed - A 16th century fort on the banks of Belle-Île-en-Mer, an island off the coast of Brittany. The hotel is just in one part of the citadelle (it's also a museum), so it feels a bit like you're somewhere you shouldn't be. My room had stunning views over the Atlantic ocean. Fabulous restaurant.
Fondation Le Corbusier
10 square du Docteur Blanche, Paris
Maison La Roche is a striking white modernist structure tucked into the Square du Docteur Blanche - a glimpse into the innovative world of designer Le Corbusier. Don’t miss the little details like the door hardware, the glass surfaced window sills, paint samples on the walls and the purist light fixtures in the dining room, and the way light and shadow play a leading role in the design.
Fondation Louis Vuitton
8 avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, Bois de Boulogne
Frank Gehry-designed building with rotating exhibits. Terrace at the top where you can see details of the architecture and great view of Paris. Restaurant Le Frank - great lunch. Get tickets online to avoid the queue. Take shuttle for 1 € from Charles de Gaulle metro exit, Avenue de Friedland. Every 15 minutes.
Fouquet’s
99 avenue des Champs-Elysées, Paris
The place to see and be seen in Paris - for more than a century it has been a popular meeting place for people from the world of cinéma, arts and culture. Sit outside with a café crème (or a glass of wine), and watch the fashionable Parisians go by.
Hod
104 rue Vielle du Temple, Marais
Gorgeous handmade jewelry.
Hotel Bel Ami
7/11 rue St-Benoît, Paris
Located within the renovation of a former 19th century printing works, in which the first copy of Guy de Maupassant’s novel "Bel Ami" was printed. Contemporary boutique hotel on one of my favorite streets in Paris. The rooms are decorated with an elegant muted palette, and minimalistic design. There's a chic cocktail bar in the lobby, and the buffet breakfast is one of the best I've had. Across from Le Relais l'Entrecôte, best steak-frites in Paris, and around the corner from Café Bonaparte, Café de Flore, and Café Le Deux Magots, as well as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the oldest church in Paris.
Hotel du Danube
58 rue Jacob, Paris
Recently renovated 3-star hotel in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The building dates back to Napoleon III, and has been owned by Madame Le Besque and her family since 1962. The design is elegant and charming, from the spring-green Chinoiserie wallpaper in the main floor lounge, to the Manuel Canovas fabrics in the "prestige" guest rooms. In the summer, the tranquil, flower-filled courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy a drink or have breakfast.
Hotel Keppler Champs-Élysées
10 rue Keppler, 16th Arrondissement, Paris
Around the corner from the Champs-Élysées, the Hotel Keppler is a fashionable, 4-star, design hotel. Bold black-and-white colours, and cutting-edge style blended with French sophistication and elegance. If you stay here, don't miss the macarons at Ladurée, and Fouquet's Restaurant on the Champs-Élysées. There's also a Relais de l'Entrecôte nearby.
Hotel le Croiseur
2 Place de la Poissonnerie, Saint-Malo
Perfect location, fabulous host.
Hotel Louis II
2 rue Saint-Sulpice, Paris
Situated close to the Odéon and Saint Germain des Prés metro stations, this little haven of charm and light offers all the comfort of a high-class hotel, with the character of a Parisian home.
Hôtel Récamier
3 bis, Place Saint-Sulpice, Paris
Small and intimate, to suit the charming neighborhood — there’s very little in the way of public space, and never a crowd in the lobby: just a breakfast room, a terrace, and twenty-four stylish, redesigned guest rooms. Rooms are crisp, contemporary in an understated way, and above all exceedingly private. On the beautiful Place Saint-Sulpice, facing the recently renovated Cathedral Saint-Sulpice.
Jardin du Luxembourg
6th arrondissement, Paris
One of my favorite places in Paris, in any season. The 56 acre park, overlooked by the Palais du Luxembourg, was designed in 1611, for Marie de Medicis, the widow of Henry IV, in the style she had known as a child in Florence. At the center of the park, surrounded by flowers, is an octagonal pond, known as the Grand Bassin. The famous Fountain de Medicis, a romantic baroque fountain designed in 1624, is located at the end of a small pond at the northeast side of the park. The tree-lined paths and terraces are populated by people strolling, doing Tai Chi, playing chess and boules, and even a fencing lesson here and there. Don't miss the statues of famous French queens and saints on the upper terrace facing the Grand Bassin.
KeR OLAM
8 rue Saint-Vincent
Very cool store with products embellished with art from local artists. Mugs, prints, t-shirts, tote bags.
L’Orangerie
Jardin des Tuileries (Seine river side) - next to Place de la Concorde
Monet’s “Water Lilies” covering the walls of two oval rooms - as Monet wanted them to be seen
La Boucherie d'Intra
11 Rue de l'Orme, Saint-Malo
Boucherie, charcuterie, traiteur - friendly butcher who also has ready-made dinners available.
La Maison Bord’eaux
113 rue Docteur Albert Barraud, Bordeaux
La Maison du Sarasin
10 Rue d L'Orme, Saint-Malo
Store sells selection of products used at Breizh Cafe, including japanese pottery bowls.
La Maison Generale
6 rue Saint-Thomas, 4 rue Corne de Cerf
I love this store - sells Caravane, Astier de Villatte, Aesop as well as curated collection of high end products and antiques. Rue Saint-Thomas store sells bedding, upholstery, table linens, cushions. Rue Corne de Cerf store has men and women's clothing, jewelry, home accessories, and a cozy café on main floor, furniture and antiques upstairs.
La Maison Saint-Germain
158 boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris
Stay in your own Parisian apartment, on the fashionable Boulevard Saint-Germain - there's a studio apartment perfect for two, one-bedroom apartments with a sofa-bed for 1-4 people, and a two-bedroom apartment that sleeps up to 6 people and boasts balconies with views of the Eiffel Tower. All are beautifully decorated, with their own kitchen and sitting rooms. If you want a private, and very quiet little haven in Paris, the Little House is accessed through an interior courtyard, It has three floors: kitchen and living room on one, and a bedroom and bathroom on each of the upper floors. All are surprisingly reasonably priced.
La Tour Eiffel
5 avenue Anatole France, Paris
Built in 1889 as the entrance arch to the 1889 World's Fair, the Eiffel Tower is the icon of Paris. Go to the top at sunset, so you're there when the lights come on...thousands of sparkling lights that twinkle for several minutes before the whole lower is illuminated. Truly magical.
Ladurée
21 rue Bonaparte; 64 Boulevard Haussmann; 16 rue Royale; 75 Champs-Élysées, Paris
The historical tea salon, founded in 1862 by Louis Ernest Ladurée. Especially famous for their macarons, a small, round cake-like cookie, crisp on the outside and smooth and soft in the middle. Also famous for their irresistible pastel packaging with gold filigree and garlands, and laurel wreath label.
Laiterie Sainte Clotilde
64 rue de Bellechasse, Paris
Cozy restaurant on the Left Bank - the menu changes daily according to what is in season.
Le Bistro Autour de Beurre
http://www.lebeurrebordier.com/en/
Chef Steve Delamaire creates recipes using local seafood and featuring Bordier Butters. A unique place, full of history.
Le Bistro de Paris
33 rue de Lille
Le Bistro de Paris serves up classic French food in an elegant setting. I love having a leisurely lunch there, sitting side by side with smartly-dressed professionals, and stylish ladies-who-lunch. I recommend the endives aux noix et roquefort Papillon, a salad of endive with creamy roquefort cheese and walnuts, sprinkled with chives, and if it’s your first time there, you must order the Dover sole. The waiter delicately bones it table side, and it is the most delectable piece of fish you will ever eat. (Be sure to order a side of pommes pureé.) The mille-feuille (translated as “a thousand sheets”) is a must-have dessert. One last note: Look for the friendly French waiter who speaks English with an American accent. The first time I met him I was so confused…until he explained that he had lived in Detroit for many years, hence the perfect American accent. The restaurant is just down the street from the Musee D’Orsay...stop here for lunch after the museum for a perfect day.
Le Churchill
13 place Winston Churchill, Limoges
Le Comptoir Breizh Café
6 Rue de l'Orme, Saint-Malo
Chefs Bernard Larcher and Raphael Fumio Kudaka have merged Japanese and Breton cuisine. Savory buckwheat crêpes filled with organic ingredients are rolled and sliced like sushi. Magnifique!
60 varieties of cider, champagne, wine
Monday Closed
Tuesday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Wednesday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Thursday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Friday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Saturday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Sunday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Le Fort National
On the beach, facing the castle
Historical citadel built in 1689 to protect the port of Saint-Malo. Amazing views of the city and the sea.
(Don't get stuck out there when the tide comes in!)
Le Goéland
3 Quai Vauban, le Palais, Belle-Île-en-Mer
Le Relais de L’Entrecote
20 rue Saint-Benoît; 15,rue Marbeuf; 101 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris
The only thing this restaurant serves is steak frites...and it's the best steak frites you'll ever have, with an amazing green peppercorn sauce. The only decision you have to make here is how you want your steak cooked, and if you want red or white wine. Comes with a salad dressed with a deliciously sharp dijon dressing, and topped with chopped walnuts, and a basket of bread. Don't fill up on your plateful of steak and frites, because as soon as your plate is empty, the black and white uniformed waitress comes back with your seconds that have been kept warm nearby. And, by all means, save room for dessert…highlights include an ice cream and meringue tower, and, my personal favorite, profiteroles. (The best profiteroles ever!)
Le Square Trousseau
1, rue Antoine Vollon, 12th arrondissement, Paris
One of my absolute favorite restaurants in Paris. It's cozy and friendly, and the food is excellent. (I always order the poulet supreme with pommes purée.) Shop at Caravane and come here for lunch. Near Ledru-Rollin metro stop.
Le Vieux Chai Antiquites – Brocante
Route de Bordeaux, Lamothe-Montravel
Les Antiquaires
13 rue du Bac
Great French bistro in the 6th. Around the corner from Musèe D'Orsay.
Les Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen
140 rue des Rosiers, Saint-Ouen, Paris
The famous Paris flea market. My favorite parts of the market are Marché's Vernaison, Paul Bert, and Serpette. Open Saturday, Sunday, 10:00 - 18:00 and Monday, 11:00 - 17:00 (although some stalls close at lunchtime.) To get there: Take the métro, Line 4, to Porte de Clignancourt and follow the crowds towards the large concrete overpass. Pass by the clothing, African objects and household goods on streets along the way. After the underpass, turn left, and then right to get to Rue des Rosiers - the main street which you walk down in order to go into the separate markets. Have lunch at Chez Louisette in Marché Vernaison - not to be missed!
Lion D'or
1 Place Chateaubriand, Saint-Malo
Local café open all day. Great service. Specialties are beef and seafood. Perfect spot to people watch.
Maison & Objet
Parc des Expositions de Paris Nord Villepinte, Paris
The ultimate European trade show for design - held in September and January. See cutting edge furniture and accessories from European designers. Register on their website.
Maison de Famille
29 rue Saint-Sulpice, Paris
Decorative accessories for the home, and beautiful clothing upstairs
Maison No.20
20 rue Traversiere, Eymet
Marais apartment
25 rue du Temple 75004 Paris
Renovated 2nd-floor (no elevator; European second floor = USA third floor) studio apartment in the heart of the trendy Marais neighborhood. Queen bed, kitchen with washing machine, dishes, glasses and utensils, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, WiFi, TV. ***Email Karyn Piasek for photos: karynpiasek@yahoo.fr [100€/night plus 40€ cleaning fee]
Marché Paul-Bert
96 rue des Rosiers, Paris; 18 rue Paul Bert, Saint-Ouen, Paris
The hippest part of the Paris Flea Market. Don't miss it. (See Aline Bachelier.)
Meert
16 rue Elzévir, Paris
Meert opened their first shop in Lille, France in 1761. When the Count of Lille sang their praises, Meert became the meeting place for high society. In the 19th century Meert became the official chocolate supplier to the King of Belgium. This gorgeous little shop on a corner in the Marais is bursting with marzipan, and sugared fruit, and caramels, delicate waffle wafers, and a seemingly infinite variety of chocolates. Slabs of white, milk, and dark chocolate dotted with hazelnuts sit next to a mallet on a wooden cutting board, waiting to be hammered into bite-size pieces...and, my favorite, the pastel-colored, fluffy guimauves, aka marshmallows.
Merci
111 boulevard Beaumarchais
, Paris
Not only is Merci one of the most fabulous stores in Paris, it’s a store with a heart…all profits from their 16,000 square feet of designer products go to charity. Inside an 18th century building on Boulevard Beaumarchais is a masterful contemporary space that holds several levels of décor, furniture, and fashion, in addition to a bookstore, a florist, several cafés, and a garden. Time it so you can have lunch there...the menu changes according to what is in season and everything is delicious.
Musée Carnavalet
23 rue de Sévigné
, Paris
CLOSED FOR RENOVATION UNTIL 2019
On the rue de Sévigné in the Marais neighborhood of Paris is the former home of Madame de Sévigné. The Hôtel Carnavalet is where she wrote a series of famous letters to her daughter, chronicling the life of 17th century Paris society. In 1880, her home and the neighboring Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint Fargeau, became a museum devoted to the history of Paris. The buildings themselves, and the courtyard within, are a glimpse into life here in the 17th century. The entry is free, so even if you don't have time for the museum, sit in the courtyard (one of my favorite respites in Paris) and imagine listening to the rustle of silk taffeta and the murmurs of genteel ladies, as Madame de Sévigné and her friends strolled in the garden.
Musée Cognacq-Jay
8 rue Elzévir
, Paris
My favorite kind of museum in Paris - the private collection of Ernest Cognacq and Marie-Louise Jay, who made their fortune with the La Samaritaine department store. Between 1900 and 1925, they amassed one of the finest private collections of 18th-century painting and objets d'art, which the couple then donated to the city of Paris. The Cognacq-Jay's collection is now installed in a late 16th century townhouse in the Marais neighborhood of Paris. Don't miss the charming courtyard garden.
Musée d'Orsay
62, rue de Lille, Paris
The museum is in the former Orsay railway station, built for the Universal Exhibition of 1900. The building itself is a work of art. The Musée d'Orsay displays collections of art from the period 1848 to 1914, encompassing all of the great Impressionist painters. There's also a collection of decorative arts, including a stunning collection of Art Nouveau furniture. Don't miss the temporary exhibitions. Stop for lunch at the new Café Campana, with a classic Parisian brasserie menu. Gorgeous contemporary design (check out the pendant lights) is juxtaposed with the massive ironwork window that holds the original train station clock. Look out the window for a spectacular view of Sacré Cœur Cathedral.
Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Museum of Decorative Arts.)
107 rue de Rivoli, Paris
In the West wing of the Louvre, the collection traces decorative arts across history, beginning with the medieval period, and civilizations, from Europe to the Middle East and far Orient...this is where to see historical furniture, interior design, altar pieces, religious paintings, objets d'arts, tapestries, wallpaper, ceramics and glassware, plus toys from the Middle Ages to the present day. Check out the fabulous temporary exhibitions when you're there, and get a bird's eye glimpse of the Jardin des Tuileries from the windows.
Musée du Louvre
Paris
Home to Da Vinci's famous "Mona Lisa" and the Greek statue of Venus de Milo, to name just a few of the masterpieces in the massive building. My best advice is to get there early.
Musee Jacquemart-André
158 boulevard Haussmann, Paris
A grand 19th-century mansion, built to order to house a collection of objets d'art and fine paintings. The collection was assembled by Edouard André and his artist wife, Nélie Jacquemart, using money inherited from his rich banking family. Stop for lunch or tea in the lovely tearoom.
Musée national de la Porcelaine Adrien Dubouché
8 place Winston Churchill, Limoges
The Adrien Dubouché National Museum of Porcelain is also known as the Adrien Dubouché Museum and the Limoges Museum.
Musée Picasso
5 rue de Thorigny, Marais
Picasso museum in renovated historic Hôtel Salé. Rotating exhibits and works from Picasso's private collection.
Buy tickets online to avoid the queue.
10:30 - 6, T - Fri
9:30 - 6, Sat and Sun
Relais Christine
3 rue Christine, Paris
The vast mansion which now houses the Relais Christine was built on the remains of the Abbey of the Grands-Augustins, founded in 1231. This delightful and discreetly luxurious boutique hotel has managed to preserve the intimacy of the private residence it once was. Its comfortable and welcoming 51 rooms and suites, the quiet atmosphere of its lounge, the charm of the spa, its private flowered garden and its personalised service make it a restful and friendly place to stay, worthy of the best Parisian addresses.
Restaurant L’Ancrage
7 Rue Jacques Cartier
Traditional French bistro - great moules frites.
Restaurant L'Absinthe
1 Rue de l'Orme
Monday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Tuesday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Wednesday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Thursday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Friday12–2PM, 7–10PM
Saturday12–2PM, 7–10PM
Sunday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Restaurant La Bouche en Folie
14 Rue du Boyer, Saint-Malo
This cozy restaurant Intra Muros (in the walls of the old town), is near the ramparts overlooking the Bon-Secours beach. Seasonal cuisine showcasing local products is offered there. Specialties: crab fritters with lime, roasted fillet of John Dory, parmesan risotto, white butter lobster bisque, Breton Tiramisu with apples and salted butter caramel.
Monday 12–1:30PM, 7–9:30PM
Tuesday Closed
WednesdayClosed
Thursday 12–1:30PM, 7–9:30PM
Friday 12–1:30PM, 7–9:30PM
Saturday 7–9:30PM
Sunday 12–1:30PM, 7–9:30PM
Royal Limoges
54 rue Victor Duruy, Limoges
Siliāc
10 rue de la Herse
Beautiful handmade jewelry made by Auriane Siliaāc, Saint-Malo resident.
The Bakery
1 Rue Saint-Vincent
Corner café, eat upstairs or take-out. Homemade soup, salads, sandwiches, pastries. Espresso, coffee - and the best chocolate chaud ever.
Citadelle Vauban Hôtel
Le Palais, Belle-Île-en-Mer
One of the most unique places I've ever stayed - A 16th century fort on the banks of Belle-Île-en-Mer, an island off the coast of Brittany. The hotel is just in one part of the citadelle (it's also a museum), so it feels a bit like you're somewhere you shouldn't be. My room had stunning views over the Atlantic ocean. Fabulous restaurant.
Le Goéland
3 Quai Vauban, le Palais, Belle-Île-en-Mer
Citadelle Vauban Hôtel
Le Palais, Belle-Île-en-Mer
One of the most unique places I've ever stayed - A 16th century fort on the banks of Belle-Île-en-Mer, an island off the coast of Brittany. The hotel is just in one part of the citadelle (it's also a museum), so it feels a bit like you're somewhere you shouldn't be. My room had stunning views over the Atlantic ocean. Fabulous restaurant.
Citadelle Vauban Hôtel
Le Palais, Belle-Île-en-Mer
One of the most unique places I've ever stayed - A 16th century fort on the banks of Belle-Île-en-Mer, an island off the coast of Brittany. The hotel is just in one part of the citadelle (it's also a museum), so it feels a bit like you're somewhere you shouldn't be. My room had stunning views over the Atlantic ocean. Fabulous restaurant.
La Maison Bord’eaux
113 rue Docteur Albert Barraud, Bordeaux
Maison No.20
20 rue Traversiere, Eymet
Le Vieux Chai Antiquites – Brocante
Route de Bordeaux, Lamothe-Montravel
Le Churchill
13 place Winston Churchill, Limoges
Musée national de la Porcelaine Adrien Dubouché
8 place Winston Churchill, Limoges
The Adrien Dubouché National Museum of Porcelain is also known as the Adrien Dubouché Museum and the Limoges Museum.
Bernardaud
27 Avenue Albert Thomas
, Limoges
Porcelain factory founded in 1863, in the renowned porcelain city of Limoges. Guided tours allow visitors to see the elaborate process from start to finish. Fantastic factory store.
Royal Limoges
54 rue Victor Duruy, Limoges
Biglove Caffé
30 rue Debelleyme
Cozy Italian restaurant in the Marais. Great cocktails, pasta, pizza (gluten-free!).
Hours 9:00AM - 6:00PM, 7:00PM - 11:00PM
Get there at 7 to queue up!
Café Charlot
38 rue de Bretagne
Great traditional café in the Marais. Fantastic breakfast.
Café de Flore
173 boulevard St. Germain, Paris
Open since 1885, one of the oldest and the most prestigious cafés in Paris. Celebrated for its famous clientele in the 1920's and 30's, including Jean Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Art deco interior, with red leather banquettes and polished mahogany, has changed little over the years. It's rival café, across rue St. Benoit, is Café Deux Magots - go to both and see which you prefer.
Café Le Deux Magots
6 place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
Historical late 19th century Paris café that It once had a reputation as the rendezvous of the literary and intellectual élite in the early 20th century. Famous patrons include Picasso and Hemingway. Rival café to nearby Café de Flore. Go to both and chose your favorite.
Fouquet’s
99 avenue des Champs-Elysées, Paris
The place to see and be seen in Paris - for more than a century it has been a popular meeting place for people from the world of cinéma, arts and culture. Sit outside with a café crème (or a glass of wine), and watch the fashionable Parisians go by.
Ladurée
21 rue Bonaparte; 64 Boulevard Haussmann; 16 rue Royale; 75 Champs-Élysées, Paris
The historical tea salon, founded in 1862 by Louis Ernest Ladurée. Especially famous for their macarons, a small, round cake-like cookie, crisp on the outside and smooth and soft in the middle. Also famous for their irresistible pastel packaging with gold filigree and garlands, and laurel wreath label.
Laiterie Sainte Clotilde
64 rue de Bellechasse, Paris
Cozy restaurant on the Left Bank - the menu changes daily according to what is in season.
Le Bistro de Paris
33 rue de Lille
Le Bistro de Paris serves up classic French food in an elegant setting. I love having a leisurely lunch there, sitting side by side with smartly-dressed professionals, and stylish ladies-who-lunch. I recommend the endives aux noix et roquefort Papillon, a salad of endive with creamy roquefort cheese and walnuts, sprinkled with chives, and if it’s your first time there, you must order the Dover sole. The waiter delicately bones it table side, and it is the most delectable piece of fish you will ever eat. (Be sure to order a side of pommes pureé.) The mille-feuille (translated as “a thousand sheets”) is a must-have dessert. One last note: Look for the friendly French waiter who speaks English with an American accent. The first time I met him I was so confused…until he explained that he had lived in Detroit for many years, hence the perfect American accent. The restaurant is just down the street from the Musee D’Orsay...stop here for lunch after the museum for a perfect day.
Le Relais de L’Entrecote
20 rue Saint-Benoît; 15,rue Marbeuf; 101 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris
The only thing this restaurant serves is steak frites...and it's the best steak frites you'll ever have, with an amazing green peppercorn sauce. The only decision you have to make here is how you want your steak cooked, and if you want red or white wine. Comes with a salad dressed with a deliciously sharp dijon dressing, and topped with chopped walnuts, and a basket of bread. Don't fill up on your plateful of steak and frites, because as soon as your plate is empty, the black and white uniformed waitress comes back with your seconds that have been kept warm nearby. And, by all means, save room for dessert…highlights include an ice cream and meringue tower, and, my personal favorite, profiteroles. (The best profiteroles ever!)
Le Square Trousseau
1, rue Antoine Vollon, 12th arrondissement, Paris
One of my absolute favorite restaurants in Paris. It's cozy and friendly, and the food is excellent. (I always order the poulet supreme with pommes purée.) Shop at Caravane and come here for lunch. Near Ledru-Rollin metro stop.
Les Antiquaires
13 rue du Bac
Great French bistro in the 6th. Around the corner from Musèe D'Orsay.
Restaurant L’Ancrage
7 Rue Jacques Cartier
Traditional French bistro - great moules frites.
Centre Pompidou
Place Georges Pompidou
Contemporary art museum - closed Tues. Open until 10 pm, so a good thing to do at night.
Fondation Le Corbusier
10 square du Docteur Blanche, Paris
Maison La Roche is a striking white modernist structure tucked into the Square du Docteur Blanche - a glimpse into the innovative world of designer Le Corbusier. Don’t miss the little details like the door hardware, the glass surfaced window sills, paint samples on the walls and the purist light fixtures in the dining room, and the way light and shadow play a leading role in the design.
Fondation Louis Vuitton
8 avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, Bois de Boulogne
Frank Gehry-designed building with rotating exhibits. Terrace at the top where you can see details of the architecture and great view of Paris. Restaurant Le Frank - great lunch. Get tickets online to avoid the queue. Take shuttle for 1 € from Charles de Gaulle metro exit, Avenue de Friedland. Every 15 minutes.
Jardin du Luxembourg
6th arrondissement, Paris
One of my favorite places in Paris, in any season. The 56 acre park, overlooked by the Palais du Luxembourg, was designed in 1611, for Marie de Medicis, the widow of Henry IV, in the style she had known as a child in Florence. At the center of the park, surrounded by flowers, is an octagonal pond, known as the Grand Bassin. The famous Fountain de Medicis, a romantic baroque fountain designed in 1624, is located at the end of a small pond at the northeast side of the park. The tree-lined paths and terraces are populated by people strolling, doing Tai Chi, playing chess and boules, and even a fencing lesson here and there. Don't miss the statues of famous French queens and saints on the upper terrace facing the Grand Bassin.
L’Orangerie
Jardin des Tuileries (Seine river side) - next to Place de la Concorde
Monet’s “Water Lilies” covering the walls of two oval rooms - as Monet wanted them to be seen
La Tour Eiffel
5 avenue Anatole France, Paris
Built in 1889 as the entrance arch to the 1889 World's Fair, the Eiffel Tower is the icon of Paris. Go to the top at sunset, so you're there when the lights come on...thousands of sparkling lights that twinkle for several minutes before the whole lower is illuminated. Truly magical.
Musée Carnavalet
23 rue de Sévigné
, Paris
CLOSED FOR RENOVATION UNTIL 2019
On the rue de Sévigné in the Marais neighborhood of Paris is the former home of Madame de Sévigné. The Hôtel Carnavalet is where she wrote a series of famous letters to her daughter, chronicling the life of 17th century Paris society. In 1880, her home and the neighboring Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint Fargeau, became a museum devoted to the history of Paris. The buildings themselves, and the courtyard within, are a glimpse into life here in the 17th century. The entry is free, so even if you don't have time for the museum, sit in the courtyard (one of my favorite respites in Paris) and imagine listening to the rustle of silk taffeta and the murmurs of genteel ladies, as Madame de Sévigné and her friends strolled in the garden.
Musée Cognacq-Jay
8 rue Elzévir
, Paris
My favorite kind of museum in Paris - the private collection of Ernest Cognacq and Marie-Louise Jay, who made their fortune with the La Samaritaine department store. Between 1900 and 1925, they amassed one of the finest private collections of 18th-century painting and objets d'art, which the couple then donated to the city of Paris. The Cognacq-Jay's collection is now installed in a late 16th century townhouse in the Marais neighborhood of Paris. Don't miss the charming courtyard garden.
Musée d'Orsay
62, rue de Lille, Paris
The museum is in the former Orsay railway station, built for the Universal Exhibition of 1900. The building itself is a work of art. The Musée d'Orsay displays collections of art from the period 1848 to 1914, encompassing all of the great Impressionist painters. There's also a collection of decorative arts, including a stunning collection of Art Nouveau furniture. Don't miss the temporary exhibitions. Stop for lunch at the new Café Campana, with a classic Parisian brasserie menu. Gorgeous contemporary design (check out the pendant lights) is juxtaposed with the massive ironwork window that holds the original train station clock. Look out the window for a spectacular view of Sacré Cœur Cathedral.
Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Museum of Decorative Arts.)
107 rue de Rivoli, Paris
In the West wing of the Louvre, the collection traces decorative arts across history, beginning with the medieval period, and civilizations, from Europe to the Middle East and far Orient...this is where to see historical furniture, interior design, altar pieces, religious paintings, objets d'arts, tapestries, wallpaper, ceramics and glassware, plus toys from the Middle Ages to the present day. Check out the fabulous temporary exhibitions when you're there, and get a bird's eye glimpse of the Jardin des Tuileries from the windows.
Musée du Louvre
Paris
Home to Da Vinci's famous "Mona Lisa" and the Greek statue of Venus de Milo, to name just a few of the masterpieces in the massive building. My best advice is to get there early.
Musee Jacquemart-André
158 boulevard Haussmann, Paris
A grand 19th-century mansion, built to order to house a collection of objets d'art and fine paintings. The collection was assembled by Edouard André and his artist wife, Nélie Jacquemart, using money inherited from his rich banking family. Stop for lunch or tea in the lovely tearoom.
Musée Picasso
5 rue de Thorigny, Marais
Picasso museum in renovated historic Hôtel Salé. Rotating exhibits and works from Picasso's private collection.
Buy tickets online to avoid the queue.
10:30 - 6, T - Fri
9:30 - 6, Sat and Sun
Aline Bachelier
18 rue Paul Bert, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Paris
Antique vendor in the Paul Bert section of the Paris Flea Market; custom-made lighting created out of vintage antique tripods and other artifacts; Aline is also a personal antique shopper who will take you to brocantes all over France and Belgium
Astier de Villatte
173 rue Saint-Honoré, Paris
; 4 rue de Bourbon-le-Château, Paris
Milky glazed ceramics, made with black terra cotta clay, leaving deliberate imperfections; inspired by 18th and 19th century designs; also the best scented candles with elaborate blends of exotic fragrances
Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville (BHV)
14 rue du Temple,
Paris
Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville, more commonly known as BHV, is the store in Paris where you can buy everything. Not only do they have everything, but they have it in large numbers, and it’s fabulous.
Bookbinders Design
130 rue du Bac, Paris; 53 rue Vielle du Temple, Paris
Cloth covered notebooks, binders, photo albums, storage boxes made in Sweden- come in a rainbow of colors
Caravane
19 and 22, rue Saint-Nicolas, 6, rue Pavée, Paris
One of my favorite stores in Paris. Textiles for the home from India and Africa - my favorite is the washed linen in a palette of gorgeous colors. Bedding and upholstered furniture is on one side of the rue St.-Nicolas, and unique dinnerware, table linens, and accessories are on the other side. Be sure to have lunch at Le Square Trousseau while you're in the neighborhood. (The rue Pavée location is in the Marais, another great neighborhood.)
Hod
104 rue Vielle du Temple, Marais
Gorgeous handmade jewelry.
Ladurée
21 rue Bonaparte; 64 Boulevard Haussmann; 16 rue Royale; 75 Champs-Élysées, Paris
The historical tea salon, founded in 1862 by Louis Ernest Ladurée. Especially famous for their macarons, a small, round cake-like cookie, crisp on the outside and smooth and soft in the middle. Also famous for their irresistible pastel packaging with gold filigree and garlands, and laurel wreath label.
Les Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen
140 rue des Rosiers, Saint-Ouen, Paris
The famous Paris flea market. My favorite parts of the market are Marché's Vernaison, Paul Bert, and Serpette. Open Saturday, Sunday, 10:00 - 18:00 and Monday, 11:00 - 17:00 (although some stalls close at lunchtime.) To get there: Take the métro, Line 4, to Porte de Clignancourt and follow the crowds towards the large concrete overpass. Pass by the clothing, African objects and household goods on streets along the way. After the underpass, turn left, and then right to get to Rue des Rosiers - the main street which you walk down in order to go into the separate markets. Have lunch at Chez Louisette in Marché Vernaison - not to be missed!
Maison & Objet
Parc des Expositions de Paris Nord Villepinte, Paris
The ultimate European trade show for design - held in September and January. See cutting edge furniture and accessories from European designers. Register on their website.
Maison de Famille
29 rue Saint-Sulpice, Paris
Decorative accessories for the home, and beautiful clothing upstairs
Marché Paul-Bert
96 rue des Rosiers, Paris; 18 rue Paul Bert, Saint-Ouen, Paris
The hippest part of the Paris Flea Market. Don't miss it. (See Aline Bachelier.)
Meert
16 rue Elzévir, Paris
Meert opened their first shop in Lille, France in 1761. When the Count of Lille sang their praises, Meert became the meeting place for high society. In the 19th century Meert became the official chocolate supplier to the King of Belgium. This gorgeous little shop on a corner in the Marais is bursting with marzipan, and sugared fruit, and caramels, delicate waffle wafers, and a seemingly infinite variety of chocolates. Slabs of white, milk, and dark chocolate dotted with hazelnuts sit next to a mallet on a wooden cutting board, waiting to be hammered into bite-size pieces...and, my favorite, the pastel-colored, fluffy guimauves, aka marshmallows.
Merci
111 boulevard Beaumarchais
, Paris
Not only is Merci one of the most fabulous stores in Paris, it’s a store with a heart…all profits from their 16,000 square feet of designer products go to charity. Inside an 18th century building on Boulevard Beaumarchais is a masterful contemporary space that holds several levels of décor, furniture, and fashion, in addition to a bookstore, a florist, several cafés, and a garden. Time it so you can have lunch there...the menu changes according to what is in season and everything is delicious.
Apartments Actually
Fabulous rental apartments in the Marais. And Provence, if you're going South.
Hotel Bel Ami
7/11 rue St-Benoît, Paris
Located within the renovation of a former 19th century printing works, in which the first copy of Guy de Maupassant’s novel "Bel Ami" was printed. Contemporary boutique hotel on one of my favorite streets in Paris. The rooms are decorated with an elegant muted palette, and minimalistic design. There's a chic cocktail bar in the lobby, and the buffet breakfast is one of the best I've had. Across from Le Relais l'Entrecôte, best steak-frites in Paris, and around the corner from Café Bonaparte, Café de Flore, and Café Le Deux Magots, as well as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the oldest church in Paris.
Hotel du Danube
58 rue Jacob, Paris
Recently renovated 3-star hotel in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The building dates back to Napoleon III, and has been owned by Madame Le Besque and her family since 1962. The design is elegant and charming, from the spring-green Chinoiserie wallpaper in the main floor lounge, to the Manuel Canovas fabrics in the "prestige" guest rooms. In the summer, the tranquil, flower-filled courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy a drink or have breakfast.
Hotel Keppler Champs-Élysées
10 rue Keppler, 16th Arrondissement, Paris
Around the corner from the Champs-Élysées, the Hotel Keppler is a fashionable, 4-star, design hotel. Bold black-and-white colours, and cutting-edge style blended with French sophistication and elegance. If you stay here, don't miss the macarons at Ladurée, and Fouquet's Restaurant on the Champs-Élysées. There's also a Relais de l'Entrecôte nearby.
Hotel Louis II
2 rue Saint-Sulpice, Paris
Situated close to the Odéon and Saint Germain des Prés metro stations, this little haven of charm and light offers all the comfort of a high-class hotel, with the character of a Parisian home.
Hôtel Récamier
3 bis, Place Saint-Sulpice, Paris
Small and intimate, to suit the charming neighborhood — there’s very little in the way of public space, and never a crowd in the lobby: just a breakfast room, a terrace, and twenty-four stylish, redesigned guest rooms. Rooms are crisp, contemporary in an understated way, and above all exceedingly private. On the beautiful Place Saint-Sulpice, facing the recently renovated Cathedral Saint-Sulpice.
La Maison Saint-Germain
158 boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris
Stay in your own Parisian apartment, on the fashionable Boulevard Saint-Germain - there's a studio apartment perfect for two, one-bedroom apartments with a sofa-bed for 1-4 people, and a two-bedroom apartment that sleeps up to 6 people and boasts balconies with views of the Eiffel Tower. All are beautifully decorated, with their own kitchen and sitting rooms. If you want a private, and very quiet little haven in Paris, the Little House is accessed through an interior courtyard, It has three floors: kitchen and living room on one, and a bedroom and bathroom on each of the upper floors. All are surprisingly reasonably priced.
Marais apartment
25 rue du Temple 75004 Paris
Renovated 2nd-floor (no elevator; European second floor = USA third floor) studio apartment in the heart of the trendy Marais neighborhood. Queen bed, kitchen with washing machine, dishes, glasses and utensils, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, WiFi, TV. ***Email Karyn Piasek for photos: karynpiasek@yahoo.fr [100€/night plus 40€ cleaning fee]
Relais Christine
3 rue Christine, Paris
The vast mansion which now houses the Relais Christine was built on the remains of the Abbey of the Grands-Augustins, founded in 1231. This delightful and discreetly luxurious boutique hotel has managed to preserve the intimacy of the private residence it once was. Its comfortable and welcoming 51 rooms and suites, the quiet atmosphere of its lounge, the charm of the spa, its private flowered garden and its personalised service make it a restful and friendly place to stay, worthy of the best Parisian addresses.
Bergamote Salon de The-et-Creperie
3 Place Jean Chaillon, Saint-Malo
Sit outside across from St. Vincent Cathedral and have a ham and cheese galette and one of many incredible desserts. Sublime.
Closed: Tuesdays
Opening hours: 10:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Boulangerie de la Cathédrale
1 Rue de Pourpris, Saint-Malo
There's a lot of boulangeries in town - this one is my favorite.
Cafe L'Ouest
4 Place Chateaubriand, Saint-Malo
Fabulous café in the Place Chateaubriand, across from the Porte St. Vincent. My favorite place for breakfast—homemade croissants, orange pressé, and delicious coffee. Great for lunch and dinner, too! Best moules frites!
Café Le Galion
1 Passage Grande Hermine, 35400 Saint-Malo, France
Don't miss this café with the most unique decor covering every surface and an old school black and white TV on the bar. It's where the locals hang out.
La Boucherie d'Intra
11 Rue de l'Orme, Saint-Malo
Boucherie, charcuterie, traiteur - friendly butcher who also has ready-made dinners available.
Le Bistro Autour de Beurre
http://www.lebeurrebordier.com/en/
Chef Steve Delamaire creates recipes using local seafood and featuring Bordier Butters. A unique place, full of history.
Le Comptoir Breizh Café
6 Rue de l'Orme, Saint-Malo
Chefs Bernard Larcher and Raphael Fumio Kudaka have merged Japanese and Breton cuisine. Savory buckwheat crêpes filled with organic ingredients are rolled and sliced like sushi. Magnifique!
60 varieties of cider, champagne, wine
Monday Closed
Tuesday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Wednesday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Thursday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Friday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Saturday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Sunday 12–2PM, 7–10PM
Lion D'or
1 Place Chateaubriand, Saint-Malo
Local café open all day. Great service. Specialties are beef and seafood. Perfect spot to people watch.
Restaurant L'Absinthe
1 Rue de l'Orme
Monday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Tuesday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Wednesday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Thursday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Friday12–2PM, 7–10PM
Saturday12–2PM, 7–10PM
Sunday12–2PM, 7–9PM
Restaurant La Bouche en Folie
14 Rue du Boyer, Saint-Malo
This cozy restaurant Intra Muros (in the walls of the old town), is near the ramparts overlooking the Bon-Secours beach. Seasonal cuisine showcasing local products is offered there. Specialties: crab fritters with lime, roasted fillet of John Dory, parmesan risotto, white butter lobster bisque, Breton Tiramisu with apples and salted butter caramel.
Monday 12–1:30PM, 7–9:30PM
Tuesday Closed
WednesdayClosed
Thursday 12–1:30PM, 7–9:30PM
Friday 12–1:30PM, 7–9:30PM
Saturday 7–9:30PM
Sunday 12–1:30PM, 7–9:30PM
The Bakery
1 Rue Saint-Vincent
Corner café, eat upstairs or take-out. Homemade soup, salads, sandwiches, pastries. Espresso, coffee - and the best chocolate chaud ever.
Château and Musée de Saint-Malo
Port St. Thomas / Place Chateaubriand
The castle of Saint-Malo is the town hall as well as home to the Museum of St-Malo.
On several levels, the museum covers a number of themes including the long maritime history of St-Malo, 19th century writers of which Chateaubriand is the most well known, WWII occupation and the destruction/ reconstruction of the town.
DON'T MISS the panoramic view from the very top!
Le Fort National
On the beach, facing the castle
Historical citadel built in 1689 to protect the port of Saint-Malo. Amazing views of the city and the sea.
(Don't get stuck out there when the tide comes in!)
Boulangerie de la Cathédrale
1 Rue de Pourpris, Saint-Malo
There's a lot of boulangeries in town - this one is my favorite.
KeR OLAM
8 rue Saint-Vincent
Very cool store with products embellished with art from local artists. Mugs, prints, t-shirts, tote bags.
La Boucherie d'Intra
11 Rue de l'Orme, Saint-Malo
Boucherie, charcuterie, traiteur - friendly butcher who also has ready-made dinners available.
La Maison du Sarasin
10 Rue d L'Orme, Saint-Malo
Store sells selection of products used at Breizh Cafe, including japanese pottery bowls.
La Maison Generale
6 rue Saint-Thomas, 4 rue Corne de Cerf
I love this store - sells Caravane, Astier de Villatte, Aesop as well as curated collection of high end products and antiques. Rue Saint-Thomas store sells bedding, upholstery, table linens, cushions. Rue Corne de Cerf store has men and women's clothing, jewelry, home accessories, and a cozy café on main floor, furniture and antiques upstairs.
Siliāc
10 rue de la Herse
Beautiful handmade jewelry made by Auriane Siliaāc, Saint-Malo resident.
Appart Cité Corsaire
3 Place de la Croix du Fief, Saint-Malo
My only hesitation in recommending this fabulous place to stay is that it won't be available when I want to go back. Three apartments are available in this great building with a perfect location on a tiny square.
Hotel le Croiseur
2 Place de la Poissonnerie, Saint-Malo
Perfect location, fabulous host.
