If You're Going to Paris This Winter, I Have the Hotspots That Everyone is Buzzing About Right Now.
Melanie Masarin serves as the Editor in Residence at Who What Wear, and she is the founder and CEO of Ghia. She writes Night Shade, a Substack newsletter that explores her experiences as a founder, treasure hunting, fashion insights, and culinary reflections. Additionally, she is the author of the upcoming cookbook, Riviera. The current buzz around Paris is palpable, with numerous compelling reasons to visit: fashion weeks, the second edition of Art Basel Paris, Design Miami.Paris, and Paris Photo — a must-see, in my opinion — in addition to an ongoing influx of fresh experiences that make any trip to Paris worthwhile. When asked about recommendations well in advance, I often say, “Please reach out to me two weeks before,” as there's a constant wave of new openings each season. Below, I've compiled a blend of tried-and-true favorites and new spots worth a visit.
37 Rue de Grenelle, 75007: Rubirosa's is owned by jeweler Lauren Rubinski, whose grandfather once sold poplin to the Vatican. This shop features stunning cashmere, pajamas suitable for dinner wear, and beautifully packaged slippers, making it a perilous place to shop. She kindly requests not to call it "the new Charvet."
6 Rue du Marché Saint-Honoré, 75001: Creative director Olivier Leone and his partner Arthur Cohen, already owners of the excellent Ojii, have just launched a sushi bar in the lovely Marché du Palais Royal. It's definitely set to be the next hot spot in Paris.
42 Rue Charlot, 75003: This establishment may not be new, but after receiving repeated inquiries about whether the wait is worth it, I braved it (only a 10-minute wait) and found it unfortunate that I left with the best jambon-beurre I’ve ever tasted. They are generous with fillings, and all their combinations are delectable. Now that I’m back in New York, I’m desperately searching for a comparable option — sadly, none can compare!
1 Rue du Sabot, 75006: Designed by the talented Sarita Posada, who has left her mark on Palm Heights and Aimé Leon Dore, this restaurant offers a refreshing change from the usual spots in the 6th! The dining area is quite alluring, and I plan to try it next week.
18 Rue de Beaune, 75007: The cherished vintage store from Tucson and New York has finally made its way to Paris. The selection is exceptionally good, even by Parisian standards, though akin to its New York counterpart, it can be quite pricey.
134 Boulevard Haussmann, 75008: Although not brand new, this restaurant is a local favorite. Their Lebanese mezze, lamb shank, and pistachio baklava are all delightful. The cotton candy ice cream is a bit much for me but worth a try.
1, Place Clemenceau, 75008: This elegant venue is owned by the same group behind Loulou. I’ve only dined outside on the beautiful terrace during the summer, but I noticed that there’s not one undesirable table inside — a significant achievement in restaurant design.
69 Rue de la Fontaine au Roi, 75011: Not new, but I must highlight it as one of my favorite shops in Paris, featuring mostly secondhand items and superbly curated small-batch pieces, including '60s Petit Bateau overstock and ceramics by Anne-Sophie Matrella.
7 Rue de Thorigny, 75003: A traditional Japanese ryokan located in the Marais, this place has received rave reviews from several friends. They offer traditional sento bath rituals, shiatsu, and tea, with exceptionally good massages.
7 Rue Rouget de Lisle, 75001: Situated near the perfect shopping trio (The Row + Bode + Charlotte Chesnais) in the 1st, this is the new sister restaurant to Alfi’s, one of my favorites. Yes, The Row’s Paris store is stunning, with Prouvé doors in the fitting rooms, but even before the euro rose to $1.19, prices here were higher than in the U.S.
23 Rue de Grenelle, 75007: This charming shop recently opened in Saint-Germain, and it’s adorable. The owner seems like she stepped right out of Amélie and offers "almost 100% French flowers."
56 Rue Amelot, 75011: With Greek Cypriot dishes and shared mezze, this place feels like a dinner party among friends – it’s the Greek spot that captivated the fashion crowd last year. Don’t miss the orange blossom frozen Greek yogurt; it’s incredibly delicious.
More Places on My List:
- Hotel Massé, 32bis rue Victor Massé, 75009: The first hotel in the 9th from this charming brother-sister duo features small rooms with beautiful light and design. It's great value
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If You're Going to Paris This Winter, I Have the Hotspots That Everyone is Buzzing About Right Now.
Whether it's established favorites or newly launched venues, Masarin's recommendations for restaurants, shopping, and hotels are essential to explore.
