Paris: Places I Love

Below are a few of the places I’ve enjoyed in Paris. The ones I look forward to revisiting when I travel there again. Keep in mind, this is by no means a comprehensive list or guide. More often than not, I run short on time, and never seem to make it through my travel hit-list. Instead, try to think of this as an ongoing, ever-evolving, all-in-one-place city page. I’ll update it after future visits. And, in the meantime, I’ll include links to other Paris guides I find inspiring.

View map: Heidi Swanson: Paris

To Eat and Drink
  • Verjus: I could eat here, at the bar á vin, every night and be completely happy. For a more formal experience book a proper table upstairs.
  • Rose Bakery: What I wouldn’t do to have a Rose Bakery in San Francisco.
  • Le Garde Robe: Went on a recommendation from David L. on my last trip. A small, lovely wine bar with small plates and a focus on natural wines – perfect for solo nights, or a when you’re with pals.
  • Le Bal: Smart cafe adjoining one of the best photo book stores in Paris.
  • L’As Du Fallafel: Fallafel so good it will ruin you for all others. Order at the window.
  • La Palette: This cafe was just around the corner from where I stayed the last time I was in Paris (Saint-Germain-des-Pres), and I spent a good amount of time there. Incredible interior, nice waiters, skip dinner and order an epic cheese plate and drinks.
  • Cuisine de Bar: another favorite lunch spot – tartines, Poilâne bread, simple, perfect salads. Two locations in Paris.
  • Poilâne: near Cuisine de Bar
  • Breizh Cafe: The Breton crepes you want to eat. The cider you want to drink.
  • Du Pain et des Idees: If I have time to visit just one bakery…
  • Kooka Boora: Best coffee I’ve had in Paris – drip or espresso.
To Shop and See
  • Musée de l’Orangerie: Reason alone to visit Paris. Monet’s Nympheaus (Waterlilies)
  • Galerie du jour Agnes B: A quick skip from the Centre Pompidou – gallery & book store.
  • Musée d’Orsay: If you just have time for a short visit – fifth floor impressionists.
  • Merci: a mash-up of amazingness in an old factory – housewares, clothes, used books, coffee, perfume, shampoo, paper, linens, bikes….
  • La Grand Epicerie: For the spectacle of it all.
  • La Tour Eiffel: I like going in the morning. Consider walking up to the observation level, it’s preferable to cramming in the elevator.
  • Paris Flea Markets: (here’s how you get there)
  • Atelier Brancusi: At the base of Le Centro Pompidou.
A Future Trip
Other Inspiring Paris Links

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