When in Paris, eat and drink like a Parisian Insider tips.
If you’re planning to be in Paris for Fashion Week, we have some tips for you to blend with the fashion caravan flocking to the city, and just look like a Parisian.
It’s not only about what to wear that make you look like a Parisian. You must also know where to go. So, we’ll share with you many options of fantastic restaurants and cool bars that only locals and savvy travellers know. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hip bistros and brasseries. Here are the trendiest and best spots you shouldn’t miss to enjoy the French capital like a true Parisian.
Le Petit Retro
Owned by former TV journalist Gregory Poirier, this is one of the last true Parisian bistros. Le Petit Retro opened its doors in 1904. And it has remained the same since; its walls and ceilings decorated with typical Art Nouveau tiles with flowers motifs. The old-fashioned cuisine is prepared with French artisanal products, and the regular local clients receive their own napkin ring.
Le Comptoir
Located in Saint Germain, this trendy restaurant is usually crowded with cool neighbourhood locals. Additionally, foodies from all over the world come to try the no-choice menu prepared by chef Yves Camdeborde. You will need to make a reservation a couple of months in advance. But if you don’t get a table, don’t fret. You can still enjoy some wine and charcuterie or seafood at the L’Avant Comptoir, the two wine bars next door.
Chez Fernand
Chez Fernand is another cute bistro in Saint Germain des Près. The bistro serves since 1970, typical French cuisine prepared with simplicity and tradition, like Boeuf Bourguignon, snails or steaks. Chic Parisians are regulars for lunch at this tiny bistro run by chef Rémi Lebon.
Mini Palais
Location, location, location. The Mini Palais is located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, where all the luxury labels are. Near the Champs Elysés and the river Seine, Le Mini Palais is at Le Grand Palais, the majestic building that hosts art and fashion events. The restaurant is run by the three Michelin star chef Eric Frechon. And the bar is one of the trendiest in Paris.
Les Cocottes Tour Eiffel
Christian Constant, the former Le Crillon three Michelin-star chef, has several restaurants, including three Les Cocottes. We especially like the Eiffel Tower address. Les “cocottes” or casseroles come in iron pots where the fabulous dishes are slow-cooked. But you can also enjoy other typical French cuisines such as foie gras and pigeon. And the desserts are delicious too.
Le Carmen
This all-night bar is set in a fabulous hotel particular with frescoes, chandeliers and big arches, that was once house to composer Bizet. The location is so stunning that it often becomes the setting for fashion magazines’ shootings. The smart bar offers piano concerts, great DJs and after-parties like the one thrown by Bella Hadid that had Virgil Abloh as DJ.
Les Papilles
Les Papilles is one of the most popular restaurants in Paris. The set menu offers dishes with only seasonal ingredients. And a wide wine selection is displayed on the wine shelf. Although it’s located near the touristic Louvre, the Parisians love to eat there or buy wine and saucissons to take away.
Au Lapin Agile
In the heart of the once-bohemian Montmartre, this cabaret opened in 1806 and was a favourite spot of the local artists. Picasso, for example, paid for his drinks with the painting Le Lapin Agile, which reproduction decorates the charming small venue. Go there to experience first-hand the “chanson française” shows and sing along while sipping a nice Beaujolais.
And since the motto is When in Paris like a Parisian, check this fashion brand turns any woman into a French girl. And don’t forget to always make a resting-bitch-face. Even if you’re surrounded by amazing people and fantastic architecture, just act cool.
Title photo courtesy of Le Petit Rétro
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