In this second edition of Monaco Life‘s Around the World series, journalist Niki Borisova heads to Paris via Champagne to discover the French capital’s hidden gems.
Paris has enjoyed plenty of time in the spotlight this year, having played host to the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, but in this guide to the La Ville Lumière, we look beyond the bright lights of the city’s most famous establishments and instead visit some of the lesser known, yet equally alluring, Parisian addresses.
A taste of Paris
In the residential 16th arrondissement, Le Flandrin provides a sophisticated dining experience in a classic setting. Housed within the historic Maison Flandrin, the restaurant features an elegant interior reminiscent of the upscale L’Avenue bistro. It is the ideal spot for that authentic Paris experience, and Monaco Life highly recommends the classic dishes of oysters and escargots accompanied, of course, by a glass of Champagne.
Another notable spot in the 16th arrondissement is Le Stella, a classic brasserie established in 1932 that is renowned for its traditional French cuisine. Again, it is the oysters and snails that reign supreme, but the homemade apple pie is also not to be missed.
Still in the 16th arrondissement, the Brach Hotel is a luxury establishment distinguished by its modern design and unique features. The hotel’s rooftop garden and bar offer visitors incredible views of the Eiffel Tower and include an unusual, but charming, addition: a flock of chickens. Could it be more Instagrammable? Downstairs, the hotel’s restaurant serves a menu focused on contemporary French cuisine, blending traditional techniques with a modern touch.
Maison Revka, also in the 16th arrondissement, is inspired by the vision of a Slavic bourgeois family. The brand, which has sister restaurants in Saint Tropez and Dubai, brings the essence of Slavic culture to Paris with its indulgent dishes of caviar, lobster and smoked salmon. An absolute must-try here is the Matryoshka cocktail, served inside a traditional Russian doll with a smoky effect.
Moving to the 12th arrondissement, Arnaud Nicolas is a notable restaurant recognised for its focus on traditional French cuisine. The restaurant is led by Chef Arnaud Nicolas, a man known for his expertise in charcuterie, and the standout feature of this place is its extensive display of various pâtés, foie gras and meat cuts.
L’Esplanade Paris, from the same owners as the famous Hôtel Costes, recently opened its doors in the 7th arrondissement. The new establishment offers a refined dining experience with a contemporary menu in an elegant atmosphere. While Hôtel Costes is renowned for its luxury and style, L’Esplanade Paris presents a fresh take on sophisticated dining. With an unparalleled view of Les Invalides, it’s also the perfect spot to enjoy a drink on the terrace.
L’Antre Amis, situated on the border of the 7th and 15th arrondissements, is located on the ground floor of a classic Haussmannian building. The chef and owner is known for his creative approach to French cuisine, sourcing high-quality ingredients directly from the famous Rungis market. L’Antre Amis is recognised in various guides and has earned a Bib Gourmand. The restaurant also offers a curated wine list featuring over 150 winemakers. Here, Monaco Life recommends the croque-monsieur and the cochon ibérique.
Cheers in the city of lights
Le Bristol After Dark, located in the Le Bristol Paris hotel, is a vibrant bar known for its energetic atmosphere; it represents a significant shift from the traditional atmosphere of the Bar du Bristol. At night, this historic bar transforms into a vibrant venue. Its centuries-old oak woodwork, plush sofas, marble fireplace and stone counter are reimagined by the lively music from top DJs, whose beats contrast the bar’s classic elegance. The Le Bristol After Dark experience takes place every Wednesday through Saturday, from 10pm till 2am.
Bar Hemingway, located in the Ritz Paris, is celebrated for its historic ambience and connection to the famous writer. A frequent visitor, Ernest Hemingway left his mark on the bar by creating the ‘Death in the Afternoon’ cocktail, which combines absinthe and champagne. The bar is also known for its strong martini cocktails, adding to its reputation for delivering classic yet potent drinks. If you indulge in a few of these martinis, be sure to keep your plans light!
Also located in the Ritz Paris, just beyond the Bar Hemingway, is the Ritz Bar, which offers a distinctive mixology experience. Beloved for its chic atmosphere and sophisticated setting, the bar features a unique approach to cocktails, with creations inspired by nature and the zodiac. Head Barman Romain de Courcy crafts original and subtle drinks that reflect the zodiac signs, providing visitors with a sensory journey.
A country escape en route to the capital
For those interested in exploring what lies outside of Paris, a train journey from Gare de l’Est to Reims provides an opportunity to visit the Champagne region. The trip, which only takes around 45 minutes, allows visitors to tour major champagne houses such as Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger, and sample their renowned produce.
Monaco Life advises stopping by at the Royal Champagne Hotel and Spa. Here, guests can savour expertly crafted cocktails and a curated selection of local Champagnes while taking in panoramic views of the vineyards and the serene landscape.
Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Tik Tok.
All photos by Monaco Life