Paris Picks : Romantic Gift Ideas

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner and love in bloom all year long, and I’ve put together a list of gift ideas directly from Paris. Perfect even to treat yourself (#selflove). I’m hoping these romantic gift ideas will bring you a little closer to the city of light and love until you can visit again in person. If you’re lucky enough to be in Paris, head over to flower shop L’Arrosoir to pick up a bouquet, bag, and book!

Chocolate is always a good idea, especially if it’s produced by a local chocolatier, in Paris. Having discovered Edwart Chocolatier when they first open their Marais boutique in 2014, I’ve been a fan of their unique concoctions ever since. Edwart also offers chocolate making classes which I had the sweet pleasure of joining.

How better to profess your love than with a sustainably made bracelet that gives back. Each colorful Let’s Commit bracelets by jewelry brand Courbet comes in 18K recycled gold featuring a laboratory-grown diamond, with 15% of the sale price supporting a foundation of your choice. Now that’s devotion! Read more about the House of Courbet, here.

The ambiance is key to a romantic setting. That’s why I’m sharing fragrant candles from family perfumery Le Jardin Retrouvé, available in three scents, Cuir de Russie, Tubéreuse Trianon, and Rose Trocadéro, these candles come in fine porcelain from Limoges, making them even more decorative, and reusable. Discover Le Jardin Retrouvé’s perfumes, too!

Want to learn how to whip up your own French macarons from the comfort of home? Cooking school La Cuisine Paris now offers online classes including the sweet option of learning to make French macarons. Having tried this class myself, I guarantee you’ll be well guided and have plenty of treats to offer everyone you love.

Ready for a French glow? Beauty brand Aime works both inside and out to leave your skin healthy and glowing. As the founders say, It’s not about being the most beautiful, it’s about being the most healthy you. All of Aime’s skin supplements and beauty products are French-made and their latest perfume oil is heavenly!

Paris Picks : Fitness Fix

One of the best ways to stay positive, focused, and healthy, especially these homebound days, is through daily or weekly exercise. Given the temporary closure of yoga studios and fitness centers in Paris, many instructors have taken to offering their courses online. The silver lining, as I mentioned in this Fodor’s article about Paris during the pandemic, is that we are better able to connect globally. Here are my top recommendations for barre, yoga, fitness, and dance classes available online and taught by some of Paris’s best instructors. You’ll (almost) feel like you’re exercising in the city of light.

San Diego born Sophia Willoughby Jeremiasz brought the sunshine with her when she founded California Barre in Paris in 2015. As Sophia admits, “It was love at first “tuck” thanks to the method’s rapid results and low impact exercises.” By combining yoga, Pilates, dance, and fitness, these intense online workouts sculpt, lengthen, and spiritually boost your body. Ready to get in shape, California Barre style?

New York dance professional Michael Pereira arrived in Paris five years ago, bringing Broadway with him. After opening his successful dance studio Broadway in Paris, Michael decided to create an online program. This led to his recent launch of Bonjour Broadway, offering a variety of dance classes, offered both by him and fellow dance professionals. Get your dancing shoes on, Michael’s good energy is contagious! Photo by Jérôme Bessout

Julie Granger is a French ballerina turned barre extraordinaire who recently brought her practice from New York to Paris. In early March, Julie opened The Studio Paris and is now holding classes online. Her signature offerings include Brooklyn Barre, a conditioning class that combines the benefits of ballet, pilates, and cardio. Having tried many of Julie’s classes, I can well understand her popularity around the globe. Photo by Nisian

Fitness guru Stephanie Nieman is the founding trainer of Barry’s Fitness, the first Barry’s to open in Paris. Since Covid-19, she begun offering her intense workouts online by launching Team Steph. Her most recent body sculpting options include dynamic DJ sets which will keep your body flowing. Needless to say, Steph’s classes are a hit (or should I say HIIT) far beyond Paris! Photo by Albin Durand

One of my favorite yoga teachers Marc Holzman, who normally spends half the year (the sunny half) in Paris when not in Los Angeles, has now transitioned to offering his energizing and uplifting classes online. This certified Ayurveda practitioner and Amrit Yoga Nidra teacher will keep you fit through his yoga classes while keeping the mood light. Once travel returns, do yourself a favor and book a yoga retreat with this master!

Paris Picks: Paris From Home

We are now well into week three of lockdown life in Paris. The sun is shining brightly and the sky has never looked so blue. At least nature is at peace these surreal days, while we struggle to make sense of current affairs. For more on life in France, head over to HiP Paris where I share thoughts along with fellow ex-pats. Meanwhile, I trust and hope that you are all safe and sane at home. In an attempt to share a little bit of Paris with you until we’re able to travel again, here are my top ways of bringing the City of Light home to you.

What better way to dive into a culture than via the pages of a book? Privileged to know so many talented authors, here’s my selection of inspiring reading material to add to your Paris book or kindle collection.

Paris, My Sweet: A Year in the City of Light (and Dark Chocolate) by Amy Thomas who also wrote Brooklyn in Love: A Delicious Memoir of Food, Family, and Finding Yourself for the New Yorkers

Seven Letters from Paris: A Memoir by Samantha Vérant who just published her latest book The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux

Bonjour Kale: A Memoir of Paris, Love, and Recipes by Kristen Beddard

Je T’Aime, Me Neither by April Lily Heise who also writes blog Je T’Aime, Me Neither

The Sweet Life in Paris: Delicious Adventures in the World’s Most Glorious – and Perplexing – City by David Lebovitz whose brand new book Drinking French: The Iconic Cocktails, Apéritifs, and Café Traditions of France, with 160 Recipes just launched

Paris Dreaming by Katrina Lawrence who shares more love for Paris on her site Paris For Dreamers

Don’t Be a Tourist in Paris: The Messy Nessy Chic Guide by Vanessa Grall who also wrote Don’t be a Tourist in New York: The Messy Nessy Chic Guide

When in French: Love in a Second Language by Lauren Collins

The Paris Journal by Nicole and Evan Robertson whose stunning literary art you can find at Obvious State

The New Paris by Lindsay Tramuta whose new book The New Parisienne: The Women & Ideas Shaping Paris you can now pre-order

The Seine: The River that Made Paris is Elaine Sciolino‘s latest book

Notre Dame de Paris: A Celebration of the Cathedral by Kathy Borrus

Paris in Stride: An Insider’s Walking Guide by Jessie Kanelos Weiner who also wrote New York By Foot

Paris On Air by Oliver Gee who runs podcast The Earful Tower all about life in Paris

Since most of us are at remaining safely at home these days, add a touch of Paris to your interiors by accessorizing. Square Modern is a favorite Parisian pillow brand that adds just the right pop of color. I myself decorate with these custom cushions, each made in Paris of designer remnant fabrics. Read more about founder Suzanne Flenard, here. As for your walls, leave it to photographer Rebecca Plotnick who has an impeccable eye for Paris.

In case you need help setting your table, whether it’s for one, two, four or more, Laura Calder is your gal. Her latest book The Inviting Life: An Inspirational Guide to Homemaking, Hosting and Opening the Door to Happiness teaches you everything you need to know about nesting in style.

In terms of dressing yourself, local designer Mari of Koshka Mashka is shipping orders directly from her Parisian atelier. Doing her part to keep us all safe, she’s including complimentary face masks with every order. If you’re in Paris contact her and she’ll happily give you a mask.

While we are nourishing our minds by reading and our homes by decorating and dining, let’s not forget our bodies. The founder of Broadway in Paris, Michael Pereira is now offering a dance class via Facebook Live every day at 5 pm Paris time. Ready for a little ballet or Broadway jazz? Read more about this inspiring dance professional, here. If you prefer an intense cardio class, head over to Instagram where you’ll find Paris-based fitness experts @StephNieman, @CaliforniaBarre, and @jujuontherOcks, each teaching classes in English.

Lastly, what better time to start those French classes? Babbel is currently running a promotion and offering three free months of lessons for all students. Bon courage!

Paris Picks : Vegetarian Restos

Could veggie burgers with sweet potato fries become the new steak frites? In recent years, vegetarian restaurants have been sprouting up all over the French capital. While most farm to table restaurants offer vegetarian plates, seasonal vegetables decorating the plats du jour in ample measure, these eateries are havens for veggie lovers. Many even provide a hearty selection of vegan and gluten-free options. For more gluten-free options in Paris, head over to blog Baci di Dama.

Founded in 2007 by chef Christel Dhuit and later expanded in 2009, Soya Cantine Bio is a vegetarian haven just steps away from Canal Saint Martin in Paris’s 11th arrondissement. With lunch and dinner combining organic seasonal produce – couscous dishes and endless vegetable plates including homemade garam masala among the options, even vegans will be well fed. As for the sweet side, all pastries are gluten-free.

Soya // 20 Rue de la Pierre Levée, 75011 // Sunday 11:30-4pm, Tuesday 7-11pm, Wed-Friday 12-4pm, 7-11pm, Saturday 11:30-4pm, 7-11pm

Lula Cantine Bio & Veggie evolved of the love of healthy organic eating by Colombian born sisters Luciana and Natalia. Since 2014, they share their seasonal and creative vegetarian recipes, many inspired by their South American roots, with passion added to every plate. It’s difficult to choose between Fajitas and the chock-full of veggies Lula Bowl. Sunday Brunch is 100% vegan and gluten-free and full of decadent albeit healthy surprises.

Lula Cantine Bio & Veggie // 216 Rue Saint-Maur, 75010 // Sunday 11:30-4pm, Monday-Saturday 9-3pm

Passionate about healthy living and gourmet organic cuisine, Agathe opened the first Café PINSON in the North Marais in 2013. Designed by interior superstar Dorothée Meilichzon, it’s hard not to feel at home while sipping your matcha latte. Both a café and restaurant, Café PINSON serves a daily changing menu of 100% organic vegetarian food with plenty of options for vegans and juices galore. You can also find a selection of their goodies at Le Bon Marché.

Café PINSON // 6 Rue du Forez, 75003 // Monday-Friday 9am-10pm, Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday 10am-6pm

The wild revolution began on Rue Charlot in 2015. Since then, Emma Sawko has continued to expand her health-food endeavor Wild and the Moon, opening outposts on Rue Amelot, in the 9th arrondissement and most recently at Place du Marché Saint-Honoré. The 100% organic, locally sourced menu complete with cold pressed juices is one of Paris’s hotspots for gluten-free and vegan food, from morning to night. Whether you’re in the mood for a turmeric latte or thai curry, these inviting addresses will serve you well.

Wild and the Moon // 19 Place du Marché Saint-Honoré, 75001 // 25 rue des Gravilliers, 75003 // 55 Rue Charlot, 75003 // 4 Rue du Helder, 75009 // 138 rue Amelot, 75011 // LAFAYETTE ANTICIPATIONS 9 rue du Plâtre, 75004

Named in tribute to their mother and fueled by a love of healthy and sustainable living, brothers David and Adrien opened Le Potager de Charlotte in 2015. Potager meaning vegetable garden, the menu combines organic farmers market produce to create epicurean plant-based cuisine. Their two addresses in the right bank serve seasonal specialties including chickpea and rice pancakes and coconut yogurt. Ask about their heavenly Sunday brunch!

Le Potager de Charlotte // 12 rue de la Tour d’Auvergne 75009 // 21 rue Rennequin 75017 // Wednesday-Saturday 7-10:30pm, Friday-Saturday 12-2:30pm, Sunday 11-3pm

Paris Picks : Vintage Shops

Where better to go vintage shopping than in the city that created French luxury brands Chanel, Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent, among many others. While there are second-hand shops scattered around Paris, known as dépôt–vente to the locals, here are a few of my favorites. Get ready for a vintage fashion shopping spree!

La Marelle is tucked into 19th century covered passage Galerie Vivienne. This consignment shop offers quite the selection, from top ready-to-wear labels with shoes and bags to match. Head up the narrow stairwell to the second floor to find a treasure trove of luxury brands including Issey Mikaye, Miu Miu and Lanvin.

La Marelle // 25 Galerie Vivienne 75002 // +33 (0)1 42 60 08 19 // Monday-Friday 10:30-6:30, Saturday 11:30-6:30

Beneath the regal arcades of Palais Royal discover Gabrielle Geppert, dressed to perfection in her signature vintage attire. Gabrielle opened her treasure trove in 2003 and has been collecting and selling clothes, bags, jewelry, shoes, and sunglasses ever since. Here you can find an impressive array of Hermès, Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Christian Dior. Next door, discover her own label of “graphic poetic” including clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

Gabrielle Geppert // 32-33 Galerie Montpensier 75001 // +33 (0)1 42 61 53 52 // Monday-Saturday 11-7

Featuring a vast selection of contemporary brands, Chercheminippes has something for everyone. With seven locations all along Rue du Cherche-Midi, you can dress the whole family and decorate your home. There’s even a shop dedicated to children and another exclusively for women’s accessories.

Chercheminippes // 102, 106, 109, 110, 111, 114, 124 rue du Cherche-Midi 75006 // +33 (0)1 45 44 97 96 // Tues-Sat 10:30-5:30

Citizen Concept Store is well stocked with fashions from past to present day, including some of the most luxurious French and international labels. From scarves to shoes to handbags, this Haut Marais boutique will quickly become a favorite vintage shopping destination. Owner Laurent will greet you warmly and offer advice on his well-curated collections.

Citizen Concept Store // 8 rue du Roi Doré 75003 // +33 01 42 78 93 75 // Monday-Sunday 11-7

Discover a rainbow of vintage ware from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s just steps away from Place de la République in the 10th arrondissement. (Read more about the neighborhood in my article for The Independent.) THANX GOD I’M A V.I.P. opened in 2008 and boasts a 200m2 (over 2,000 square feet) space where both men and women can reinvent themselves in style. They also recently added their own label to the mix.

THANX GOD I’M A V.I.P. // 12 rue de Lancry 75010 // +33 (0)1 42 03 02 09 // Monday-Saturday 2-8

Paris Picks : Romantic Spots

To visit Paris is to fall in love, with the city, with the object of your affection, and above all, with yourself. Anyone who has ever stepped foot in the City of Lights knows that the French capital will charm you to no end. Simply strolling the cobbled streets of the Right or Left Banks is an experience in indulging the senses.

Beyond each historic café-lined corner another secret awaits to be discovered. While the pleasure lies in uncovering your own Parisian treasures, allow me to share a few of my romantic favorites, on the occasion of Valentine’s Day.

Let’s start with chocolate, everyone’s favorite indulgence, non? While there are many artisanal chocolatiers that merit a tasting, it’s Jacques Genin that wins my heart. Maybe it’s because his chocolat chaud is one of the most decadent in Paris, not to mention his famous Paris-Brest, a light pastry with a creamy praline filling. Regardless, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Take a seat at his cozy Haut Marais tea salon and order sweets to your heart’s content. And don’t forget to pick up a box of chocolate on your way out. Find my list of other top chocolatiers to taste, here.

Jacques Genin // 133 Rue de Turenne 75003 // Tuesday-Sunday 11-7 // 01 45 77 29 01

Only in Paris will you find the Museum of Romantic Life, better known as the Musée de la Vie Romantique. Once home to painter Ary Scheffer, this was where Parisian intellectuals would meet, to the tunes of Frédéric Chopin playing the piano. Included in their entourage were George Sand, Franz Liszt, and Charles Dickens. Take a walk through this 1830 hôtel particulier and settle into its enchanting garden for lunch by Rose Bakery.

Musée de la Vie Romantique // 16 Rue Chaptal 75009 // Tuesday-Sunday 10-6

Given the chill of February, where better to spend an afternoon warming up with your loved one than in the heat of a luxurious hammam? Les Cent Ciels is just the place to spoil yourself, and maybe even a date. Revel in a cleansing gommage, where you can soak in the steam for hours, and book a rejuvenating massage for an extra treat. Read about my other favorite hammams here.

Les Cent Ciels // 7 Rue de Nemours 75011 // Hours vary daily // 01 55 28 95 75

Since Paris is also the fashion capital, stop by Galeries Lafayette, one of the most regal department stores in the world. If your heart isn’t into shopping, enjoy the ornate interiors, dating back to the 19th century. These days there’s a 9-meter long glass walkway suspended 16 meters high in mid-air, allowing you an even closer look at the majestic dome. Continue to the top floor for one of the most stunning rooftop views of Paris. Are you in love yet?

Galeries Lafayette // 40 Boulevard Haussmann 75009 // Mon-Sat 9:30-8:30, Sunday 11-8 // 01 42 82 34 56

The capital of love is also the capital of fine dining. Why not dine in a historic monument? Head to the Gare de Lyon, one of Paris’s seven train stations, and rather than booking a ticket (though that’s always enticing), head up the stairs to Le Train Bleu. Originally created for the Exposition Universelle in 1900, each room represents a different region of France, with 41 paintings lining the richly decorated walls. In 1963, it was coined with its current name and has since then become an address frequented by those with a taste for elegance.

Le Train Bleu // Place Louis-Armand 75012 // Monday-Sunday 7:30-10:30 // 01 43 43 09 06

Regardless of where you find yourself on Valentine’s Day, or any day for that matter, take time to inhale what is so deeply Parisian; strolling from the Right Bank to the Left with no clear destination in mind; stopping at a café terrace for a café crème with a side of people watching; picking up a warm baguette as the scents of freshly baked bread waft through the air. More simply, falling in love with each moment as it finds you.

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