Paris - the city of love, the city of fashion, the city of food. Every bistro seems to outcharm the previous one, making it quite a challenge to decide. We've gathered our very own highlights for you.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Le Tourville
This cozy 4-star boutique hotel is centrally located near the Eiffel Tower, offering an optimal retreat after a bustling day in the city of millions. The small foyer invites relaxation with its cozy atmosphere, and the daily fresh breakfast buffet is a delight. While the rooms aren't particularly large, they are very clean, and a small welcome greeting awaits upon arrival, including complimentary, refillable drinking water. For us, it was the perfect place to process the city's impressions and refuel for a new day in Paris.
WHERE TO EAT
Au Petit Tonneau
Located in the heart of the 7th Arrondissement of Paris, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, is this authentic Parisian bistro, which has existed for more than 80 years. Au Petit Tonneau, meaning "in the small barrel," is far less rustic than the name suggests: a friendly atmosphere, white tablecloths, and homemade upscale cuisine. The pan-fried cod on seaweed butter risotto melts buttery on the tongue, and the classic Tarte Tatin with Normandy cream tastes like pure France. To top it off, the ice-cold Imperial Mandarin Soufflé is served with a generous shot of liqueur upon request.
Le Florimond
Also near the Eiffel Tower, this small restaurant with its red facade outside and an extremely hospitable team inside. The concept is as simple as it is ingenious: mainly seasonal and sustainable products end up on the plate. And you can taste the good quality of the ingredients. An absolute highlight is the French Toast with vanilla cream, pear, and rooibos. Beware: you should order this dessert in advance to make sure you get one. Our evening was then completed by a visit from the head chef personally at the table. Reservations are only possible by phone, and the service speaks English and French.
Ober Mamma / Big Mamma Group
Italian excellence in look and taste. The Big Mamma Group is known for its lovingly designed trattorias, which transport you to an Italian short break just by entering. All products are imported directly from Italy, and the Neapolitan pizzas are baked to perfection in large stone ovens. It's loud, colorful, delicious – authentically Italian. The restaurants can be found multiple times in the city and worldwide: including Milan, London, Paris, Madrid, and now also in Germany in Munich and Berlin.
WHERE TO SNACK
Artisan Boulangerie
Located near the Gare de Lyon is this small, unassuming boulangerie. Anyone who has been to Paris knows that there are boulangeries and patisseries aplenty. In search of the perfect French croissant or Pain au chocolat, you might want to try a few. We definitely found what we were looking for here, and the eclairs and macarons were to die for - literally.
Maison Plisson
A delicatessen market and restaurant in one. Maison Plisson near the Place de la Bastille is worth a visit not only for its culinary offerings but also because, as they say, the eye eats too. The small market is filled with high-quality, regional, and seasonal products. Everything looks so tempting that you could spend hours in it – a true paradise for (hobby) gourmets. Fresh fruit, fresh seafood, and of course, a cheese counter that leaves nothing to be desired. For us, the perfect spot for one or two delicious souvenirs.
WHERE TO SHOP
Merci
And for those who want to take a little bit of Paris home with them, the Merci Shop is the perfect place. Tucked away in a small courtyard lies the former 19th-century factory building. Spread across three levels, you can find inspiration here for all sorts of things that make life a little more beautiful. From kitchen utensils, home accessories, fashion, jewelry, or art – everyone finds something here for the little luxury in everyday life. And don't worry, if you can't decide with all the choices, there's also an online shop.