Vitamin Daily

She owned one of Toronto’s most charming boutiques, and after four years of Finn, Amalie Bruun has shut down shop to explore horizons new. Back from an autumn sojourn in Paris, Bruun shares some of her favourite things about a city she’s adored since her first visit, aged 9.

“I have returned to Paris many times, and each visit leaves me wanting more. I discover new haunts and return to the old favourites.”

eat

This was my first visit to Le Verre Vole, having been introduced to it through friends of a friend. Until recently this little restaurant/wine shop only sat about 11 people. Now, having expanded the back as well as the menu, this little place is bustling (reservation required), but charming. The food is classic French fare and well priced. It is a real neighbourhood spot which people return to time and time again.

shop
One cannot visit Paris without a stop at Merci. Housed in an old factory and brought to you by the people behind the adorable children's line Bonpoint, Merci is a concept store of clothing, accessories, housewares, linens, school supplies and a cafe. The feeling is light and airy with treasures to be discovered in every corner. While the edited collections from Isabel Marant, Les Prairies de Paris, Acne etc. are amazing, it’s the items for the home that get me every time. Perfectly wrinkled linen aprons, napkins & slip covers, oversized, white painted canvas baskets, perfect little glasses, a myriad of ceramic offerings and of course furniture. Be sure to bring your wallet!

I discovered Secret Maison on my very last day. It has the same sensibility as Merci, but a much more streamlined approach. Everything in this little place is perfect—sumptuous printed cashmere scarves, gorgeously wrinkled bed linens and curtains in inky greys, blues, cafe au lait, plum and white, rustic baskets, thick, cozy socks. If I were to do it all over again in the retail world, this is exactly the store I have always dreamed of having.

do

The largest public park in Paris, Le Jardin de Luxembourg is the official garden of the French Senate, housed on the grounds in the Palais. At any given time, the park is full of people –sitting, reading, running, reflecting. It offers a nice pause in beautiful surroundings – fountains, gardens, wide boulevards, benches and even a tiny theatre, children's playground, tennis and basketball courts. Step inside the massive iron gates if even for a short visit.

drink

Great cocktails, great people watching with wrap around tables outside, Le Fumoir is located very close to the Louvre. International newspapers and overstuffed leather couches give this place a bit of an old boy's club feel without the stuffiness.