"Paris is a city of layers; history, style, and a certain effortless glamour." —Martin Brudnizki

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Paris remains the eternal muse for creatives—a living museum where centuries of artistic vision collide with contemporary innovation. While guidebooks will direct you to the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, design insiders know that Paris reveals its most exquisite treasures to those who seek out its intimate corners, hidden ateliers, and the local haunts where architects, artists, and makers find their inspiration.

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We've assembled the top Experts who consider Paris home or a frequent pilgrimage. From legendary hospitality designer Martin Brudnizki (the creative force behind Le Grand Mazarin and La Fantaisie) to Alfredo Paredes, the mastermind behind the infamous restaurant Ralph’s, these connoisseurs unveil the Paris that exists beyond the tourist track—where exceptional design, culinary artistry, and cultural exploration converge.

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Where to Stay

For Indulgent Elegance

Le Bristol remains Paris-based Expert Diego Delgado-Elias' occasional extravagance—"I sometimes treat myself to staycations there. I love that it's a proper old-school hotel—the service is always on point."

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Nina Farmer gravitates toward the "cozy, club-like atmosphere of the Saint James," which, despite being slightly off the beaten path, she finds "especially magical" during winter months.

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The iconic Hôtel Costes earns Alfredo's enduring loyalty: "It's right in the middle of everything, and there's this timeless, slightly mysterious vibe about it that I really love. The interiors are dark and moody in the best way, like classic Paris with a bit of an edge."

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For Design Connoisseurs

Nina and Martin recommend Le Grand Mazarin—a property the latter designed himself—in Le Marais for those seeking playful refinement that captures "the district's unique energy... filled with unexpected details that feel both grand and intimate, just like the neighborhood."

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For a more serene aesthetic experience, Martin suggests his other Parisian project, La Fantaisie: "a little oasis where color and comfort take centre stage. It's a softer, more whimsical escape, perfect when you want to retreat from the bustle."

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Gabrielle Savoie, Director of Brand and Editorial at The Expert, offers Hôtel Hana, a diminutive Laura Gonzalez-designed gem in the heart of Little Tokyo in the 2nd, which blends Japanese and French influences in the small footprint of a Haussmannian building. “Expect compact but immaculately designed rooms and charming staff.”

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Diego, Expert co-founder Jake Arnold, and Carol Estes, who splits her time between the French capital and San Diego, all champion Château Voltaire. Diego praises its ability to strike "the right balance between thoughtful design, central location, and good price—plus, there's always a bit of a scene." If you choose to stay elsewhere, an evening at the hotel’s restaurant, Brasserie Emil, is a must for Carol and Gabrielle.

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For the New Guard

Portland-based Tiffany Thompson—a frequent traveler to the city of lights—recommends two standouts: Hôtel Dame des Arts and Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs, designed by Fabrizio Casiraghi. “For me, it's all about the design, and both deliver that effortlessly."

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Gabrielle also highlights SoParis as "perfect for a friends’ trip"—ideally situated on the edge of the Marais to enjoy both peace and proximity to the neighborhood's energy. “The rooms are spacious, the property is located right on the Seine (hello, runner’s paradise), and the rooftop offers one of the best views in Paris. A short (and scenic) stroll in the morning will take you to quaint Île Saint-Louis, where Noir serves fantastic coffee.”

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For Timeless Charm

When she needs to be centrally located, Nina appreciates the understated elegance of Relais Christine. “I like to stay in Saint-Germain—it always feels like a home away from home.”

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Patrick McGrath offers an unexpected recommendation with Hôtel Regina: "I stayed there when I was a teenager with my family, and it's exactly the same as 20 years ago. Old-school Parisian hotel, slightly dated but amazing breakfast and location, right across from the entrance to Musée des Arts Décoratifs,” (a design lover’s must).

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Where to Eat

Spectacular Settings

Le Train Bleu in Gare de Lyon earns the admiration of Jessica Helgerson, who splits her time between her studios in Portland and Paris. Bonus: it offers an easy meal on the way in and out of Paris: "Getting to the station early and having lunch there (you definitely need a reservation) is a fabulous way to kick off your trip."

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Nina champions Laurent, "located in a former 19th-century hunting lodge near the Champs-Élysées, the restaurant features pastel-colored walls, antique wicker chairs, and stunning views of the garden. Its elegant décor, with opulent chandeliers and a refined atmosphere, makes dining there an unforgettable experience."

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Girafe, located inside La Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine, receives Tiffany's unequivocal endorsement: “It feels like a hidden gem. Once you step inside, you're met with one of the most decadent and elegant restaurant interiors. The best part? Dining on the terrace with the Eiffel Tower practically at your feet."

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On a sunny summer’s day, Gabrielle recommends the terrace at Loulou: “It’s the perfect setting to enjoy a lingering lunch in the heart of the Tuileries. Their pistachio pesto linguine is so divine, I had to recreate it at home. The restaurant is also inside the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, so plan your visit before or after your déjeuner for a design-filled day.”

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For a seasonal experience, Carol recommends the ephemeral Fabula Paris in the 16th-century courtyard of the Musée Carnavalet: "Only open from May to September, this is a wonderful experience to be enjoyed on a hot summer night when a small cold plate and delicious cocktail fit the bill."

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Classic Brasseries & Bistros

Jessica offers an invaluable tip for architectural splendor: "The Grandes Brasseries de Paris are typically jaw-droppingly beautiful architectural gems constructed to elevate the average worker’s lunch experience,” she says. They are affordable and offer standard French fare. “Some of my favorites are Bouillon Julien (in the art nouveau style) or Brasserie Mollard (amazing mosaics), Bofinger (in the art deco style)."

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Martin doesn't hesitate when recommending Chez l'Ami Louis: "It’s simple, utterly French, and always delicious. There's something wonderfully unapologetic about it, from the crisp-skinned roast chicken to the impossibly generous slabs of foie gras."

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Diego favors Chez Georges: "I think it captures everything you want from Paris: old-school brasserie vibes, great food, and the perfect crowd."

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Patrick loves Benoit—"classic French food with old school interiors"—and recommends Brasserie Lipp for reliable, quick meals.

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Good Vibes Only

For Martin, the magic happens when design and gastronomy work in harmony, creating an atmosphere that lingers long after the last bite. Boubalé, his creation, “is deeply Parisian and inspired by the city’s historic salons, where art, conversation, and indulgence have always intertwined. I was there in January and was reminded how effortlessly the warmth, the energy, the sense of occasion come together.”

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Beyond that, he often turns to L’Ambroisie, “where the setting is as refined as the cuisine. Classic, timeless, and quietly luxurious, much like the city itself.”

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For a quick bite that never disappoints, Chez Janou, a Provençal-style bistro in the Marais, is Nina’s go-to. “It’s unfussy, charming, and always hits the spot.”

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Casual Neighborhood Gems

Dreamin Man coffee shop gets Diego's vote: "They have a couple of locations, but I usually go to the one on Rue Amelot, close to home."

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For Gabrielle, there is no better way to start the day than at Café Verlet: “Even your to-go cup and croissant are served on a silver tray, and the apothecary-style floor-to-ceiling bookshelves are filled with vast collections of specialty coffees and teas.”

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A favorite of Tiffany is Benchy, a cozy Japanese café with great breakfast options. “Don’t limit yourself to just French cuisine—Paris has some of the best chefs from all over the world, and the diversity in flavors is part of what makes the city so special.”

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Marché des Enfants Rouges receives multiple recommendations, with Diego praising its "well-curated selection of casual restaurants and food stalls.”

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Directly across from the market, Jessica also suggests Chez Alain Miam Miam, "serving up what are widely believed to be Paris' very best sandwiches."

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Partage Café earns Carol's emphatic endorsement: "If you like a delicious healthy meal that’s scratch kitchen prepared with the best ingredients, this is your place. There is always a line out the door, even in the pouring rain! I probably eat there four times a week."

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Where to Shop

Conquering Les Puces de Saint-Ouen

Paris's famed flea market can be overwhelming without insider knowledge. While our experts unanimously recommend Paul Bert Serpette as the market's crown jewel, they offer nuanced approaches to exploration. "It's the heart of Les Puces for me," says Nina, who has "had great success at Julien Segard and Franck Morel, both of whom consistently have beautifully curated pieces."

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Diego takes a philosophical approach: "I don't have a favorite vendor—Paul Bert definitely has the most curated and organized dealers—but part of the charm is wandering and discovering unexpected treasures. I always recommend checking out the surrounding shops, where you can often find better prices." Tiffany agrees: “The magic of sourcing is finding vendors who resonate with you, forming relationships, and discovering hidden gems. Spend a few days there, revisit, and give yourself time to uncover something amazing.”

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Jessica echoes this sentiment: "It’s just one giant candy store for interior designers, and treasures can be found at every level. Think of it like an onion, with the outer layer being street vendors selling sneakers and jeans, and the inner heart being the interior boutiques of Paul Bert Serpette, where you can find incredibly valuable antique treasures." Somewhere in between is one of her favorites: Tombées du Camion (meaning ‘fallen from the truck’). "They carry fairly simple vintage lighting parts (lots of cute glass and metal shades) and they will build them into a sconce, pendant, or surface mount to suit your needs."

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Jake shares a particularly special experience: "We went to the Marché aux Puces with this incredible collector, Joseph Daaboul from Pheromones,” (also one of Carol’s go-to vendors). “It was really special because the market was technically closed, but he had opened up for us, and there was no one else there."

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Carol’s not-to-miss vendors:

• Galerie Glustin and Glustin Luminaires: "Higher-end huge selection. Visual paradise and stunning lighting."
• Anti Matiere Interieur: "Beautiful collection."
• La Boutique de Sophie: "Loads of traditional French crystal chandeliers with good pricing."
• Galerie Kopek: "Curated wabi-sabi selection."

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Beyond Les Puces: Galleries & Design Destinations

When time is limited or you're seeking a more curated experience, our experts direct you to these exceptional design destinations:

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Féau Boiseries (17th) receives multiple endorsements, with Nina describing it as "an incredibly inspiring space, filled with both antique and newly made paneling—it's a masterclass in architectural detail and craftsmanship."

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Jake recommends Galerie Éric Philippe in Galerie Véro-Dodat (1st): "Éric Philippe has been in his gallery for 45 years, and seeing his collection was so worthwhile. It's in the most amazing passageway."

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Le Sentiment des Choses (3rd) showcases "lovely pieces in the wabi-sabi style," according to Carol.

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La Tuile à Loup (5th) is Nina's go-to "for beautifully crafted dishes and ceramics that feel truly special."

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Atelier 55 (6th) on the Left Bank is one of Jessica’s favorites: "They have an enormous collection of ceramic pieces by Mithe Espelt, a French mid-century ceramic artist I love, and typically have a large selection of pieces by Guillerme et Chambron."

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Galerie LMG (6th) earns Jessica's trust: "We've bought a number of things from them. The owner, Laurent, has a great eye."

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Amélie Du Chalard (formerly Amélie Maison d'art) in the 6th arrondissement is Carol's favorite art gallery: "Make a reservation. They have the most wonderful staff to help you find the art you seek. Tell Morgane I sent you!"

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For lighting specialists, Jessica recommends Triode Design (6th), "who carries the very best lighting in Paris," and Le Bazard d'Electricité (3rd): "the first electric lighting supply store in Europe—an absolute bonanza of light fixtures, parts, and pieces."

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Patrick always stops at Simrane (6th) on Rue Bonaparte "for bed linens, tablecloths, etc," and considers Galerie Chenel "incredible, like stepping into a private museum."

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Galerie Kugel (7th) is a go-to for Alfredo: “It’s incredible if you want to see mindblowing antiques in a gallery setting.”

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KRD (7th) is Carol's recommendation "for beautiful mid-century Scandinavian pieces. The delightful owner, Klavs, is an interior designer and extremely helpful. Good pricing too."

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Galerie Paradis in the 9th arrondissement comes highly recommended by Diego for contemporary furniture.

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AXS Design (11th) offers "great prices and an incredibly large, visually pleasing selection of vintage accessories and furniture," says Carol.

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Tiffany’s go-to galleries:

• Carpenters Workshop Gallery (3rd)
• Mariane Ibrahim (8th)
• Matter and Shape (10th)

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Essential Bookshops & Specialty Stores

No design pilgrimage to Paris would be complete without visits to the city's exceptional bookshops and papeteries.

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Patrick considers Librairie Galignani on Rue de Rivoli "the best bookshop in Paris."

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For library lovers, Jessica highlights the Bibliothèque Forney, which "in addition to being housed in a gorgeous building, specializes in books on architecture, design, and the decorative arts."

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Calligrane earns Alfredo's admiration: "It's a paper and stationery shop, but everything is so thoughtfully presented. They carry handmade papers, books, and objects that feel like art pieces. It's inspiring in a really subtle way."

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Martin has a passion for specialty shops: "I love little stationery shops for something a bit different. L'Ecritoire Paris and Melodies Graphiques are absolute treasure troves, I could spend hours in them looking at different pens, pencils, and hand-bound books."

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Tiffany recommends The Broken Arm, a high-end boutique carrying beautifully curated fashion and lifestyle pieces. “What stands out most is how the space is designed—clean, intentional, and inspiring,” she explains. “I often find that retail spaces give me more design inspiration than traditional design destinations. They’re immersive, personal, and often push boundaries in subtle, unexpected ways.”

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For specialty interests, Martin suggests Nicolas Daul, "a speciality tea haven. It's old-fashioned with apothecary-style cabinets brimming with tea blends. It's a nice way to step back from the hustle of everything and take in a moment of calm."

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What to Visit

The Musée Nissim de Camondo receives the most enthusiastic recommendations, with Nina describing it as "a beautifully preserved private residence that offers an intimate look at early 20th-century French design and craftsmanship." Jessica particularly praises it for "the most beautiful kitchen I have ever seen."

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Jake highlights Hôtel de la Marine (a favorite of Gabrielle, too) at Place de la Concorde: "At the end of the Jardin des Tuileries, Hôtel de la Marine offers a tour of the restored 18th-century apartments of the King's Intendant. It’s the most unbelievable and inspiring place."

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The Musée Bourdelle garners multiple endorsements. Carol declares it a must-visit. “Recently opened to the public, it’s the famous sculptor's authentic studio and garden with a plethora of works displayed." Nina also loves the space, calling it "a lesser-known gem that blends sculpture, architecture, and studio space in a way that is both raw and inspiring."

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The Fondation Louis Vuitton is well worth the detour, “especially if you can make it there for the David Hockney exhibit,” says Gabrielle. On view until August 31, 2025, the artists’ largest-ever collection of iconic works is a must-see, but the sculptural Frank Gehry-designed building alone is enough to warrant a visit.

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Diego recommends the Musée des Années Trente in Boulogne-Billancourt: "It's a small, lesser-known museum just outside the city that focuses on furniture, painting, and sculpture from that period, with a beautiful selection of Art Deco pieces."

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For architecture enthusiasts, Diego suggests the Fondation Le Corbusier, while Jessica recommends Les Arches de la Coulée Verte: "It's an ancient railway viaduct that is an elevated park above (think New York's High Line) and below, in the arches, some of the best craftspeople of Paris; leather workers, stained glass artists, wood workers, jewelers, and more."

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Musée Carnavalet in the Marais gets Patrick's vote: "The 16th-century building is so beautiful and the museum tells the history of the city."

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For something utterly unique, Alfredo recommends the Giacometti Institute, the Musée Cognacq-Jay “for a bit of 18th-century romanticism.” Jessica suggests Chasse et Nature, "a strange and wonderfully curated cabinet of natural curiosities."

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Contemporary cultural spaces receive attention too, with Jessica recommending Le Centquatre, "a vibrant and delightful cultural center housed in an old factory. It serves the community and has constantly rotating dance events, art exhibits, and more. It's a great example of modern Parisian life at its best."

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