Everything about the city of love lends itself to summer; the cafe culture spilling out over pavements, the thrill of taking in the city by walking and cycling, and the beauty of Paris’ buildings glowing in the late evening sun. While Parisians themselves may be leaving the city for their summer breaks, the range of attractions on offer to visitors remains unparalleled.
Khaleejesque gives you the lowdown on what's new and happening in this romantic capital; so be sure to check them out next time you're there!
Latest Restaurants
• Kei Restaurant (5, Rue Coq Héron)
Run by the star Japanese chef Kei Kobayashi, this minimal venue is a cool new addition to the Les Halles district. The creative and flavour-focused dishes look stunning on the plate and will be just as pleasing to the taste buds.
• La Cuisine and Il Carpaccio (Raffles, 37, Av. Hoche)
These two new restaurants opened recently under the capable command of pastry chef Laurent André, formerly of London’s Ducasse. La Cuisine serves unique seasonal dishes, while Il Carpaccio offers Italian plates and wonderful desserts.
• La Régalade St Honoré (123 Rue St Honoré)
The second venture from super-chef Bruno Doucet continues to uphold his reputation for fabulous, mouth-watering food. Reviewers rave about the perfect soufflés, the sumptuous morilles (mushrooms) and the wonderful range of dishes; this is a must for any Parisian visitor.
New Boutiques
• Make my D (7, Rue la Vieuville)
Make My D overlooks Paris from its perch up at hip Montmartre. Owner Nathalie Bui picks out the best of around 20 European designers, and the result will make you want to spend hours browsing and trying on accessories.
• Hotel Particulier (15, rue Léopold Bellan)
You never know what you might find in this eclectic collection that combines creations from top designers, artists and sculptors, including Vivienne Westwood and accessories designers Carlos Falchi and Paula Bianca. See the fantastic website for details at www.hotelparticulier-paris.com
• Suite 114 (114 Rue du Bac)
This glamorous new store houses a collection that will make any fashionista’s day. Search for unique finds among vintage suitcases, lingerie and designer perfumes to create your own Suite 114 look.
Hotel Openings
• Mandarin Oriental (247-251 rue Saint Honoré)
The long awaited Parisian branch, opening in July, is perfectly placed for access to the best luxury shopping, dining and strolling the city has to offer. Its extensive facilities will include a spa, indoor swimming pool and fitness centre.
• Seven Hotel (20, rue Berthollet)
A browse of the super-cool website at www.sevenhotelparis.com will give you an idea of what to expect at the futuristic Seven hotel. Choose from individually designed suites such as ‘007 Suite’ and ‘Marie Antoinette’ and let yourself be transported to a different world.
• Shangri-La (10 avenue d’Iéna)
The hotel is located in Prince Roland Bonaparte’s former mansion; and still boasts all the gold leaf, high ceilings and grand mosaics fit for a Prince. Combined with unparalleled views and gorgeous suites; this is the ultimate new luxury hotel.
Summer Events
• Paris Jazz Festival, Parc Floral (11 Jun-31 Jul)
Head down to Parc Floral every Saturday and Sunday from 3pm to enjoy fantastic free jazz gigs. Take a picnic and lounge on the grass, unless you get there early enough to claim the seats.
• Solidays, Hippodrome de Longchamp (24-26 Jun)
The annual festival to support Solidarité SIDA, France’s biggest HIV charity, draws in thousands of visitors with its exciting music line-up, including Kasabian and Vanessa Paradis.
• Paris Cinema (2-13 July)
The city’s famous film festival is one of the highlights of the summer. Audiences can vote for their favourite films after watching them in special screenings, attend a unique ‘movie-goers flea market’ and generally celebrate all things cinematic. See the website at www.pariscinema.org for details.
• Così Fan Tutti, Palais Garnier (16 Jun-16 Jul)
Visiting the opera is a truly Parisian experience; the golden interior of the Palais Garnier sums up the city’s decadent past. What better way to enjoy it than with a production of Mozart’s stunning opera buffa, Così Fan Tutti.
– Olivia Parker
