June 3rd, 2010
Say Oui to Paris
Sure, we go to Paris to admire the impressionists in the Musée d’Orsay or drool over fashion history in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, but we always end up spending most of our time indulging ourselves in food, drink, and shopping.
sleep
Located in the working class 20e arondissement, the Philippe Starck-designed hotel Mama Shelter offers urban-oasis styling on a budget. With quirky touches like plastic masks for bedside lamps (our room had Shrek and Princess Fiona), chalkboard ceilings, and elevators wallpapered with fun facts, as well as hallway mirrors listing neighbourhood concerts and events, it’s clear that this Mama is the loving kind. Rooms start at €99/night. 109 rue de Bagnolet, 75020, Paris, +33 (0)1 43 48 48 48, www.mamashelter.com
eat
Tucked away from the noisy red-light atmosphere of Le Pigalle is the charming garden courtyard restaurant at the Hotel Amour. Far from its old clientele during its by-the-hour days, the restaurant and bar now cater to a chic crowd who like to dine on tartare de boeuf, then play foosball in the basement. Hotel Restaurant Amour, 8, Rue Navarin, 75009 Paris, +33 (0)1 48 78 31 80, www.hotelamourparis.fr
drink
Hidden behind a vine-covered black gate is Le Très Particulier, the private bar at the Hotel Particulier Montmartre. Knock and say you are there to “boire un verre,” and then let David, the New York bartender, fix you one of his original creations. Reservations are a must. 23, Avenue Junot, 75018 Paris, +33 (0)1 53 41 81 40, www.hotel-particulier-montmartre.com
shop
Forget Colette! Merci is the newest lifestyle concept store creating a buzz in Paris. Browse the airy loft for clothes, books, furniture and even flowers. With proceeds going to a foundation helping children and women in Madagascar, designers including Annick Goutal, Yves Saint Laurent, and Stella McCartney offer custom items at 30 per cent off. Merci, 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris, +33 (0)1 42 77 78 92, www.merci-merci.com
