Mariela's favorite places in Paris

Lifestyle

While Fashion Week is in full swing in the world's fashion capitals, the season comes to a close in Paris over the next few days. If you're visiting the City of Light, don't miss these six must-try addresses, tested and approved by our designer Mariela Schwarz Montiel!

1- Le Musée de la Vie Romantique

Nestled in the heart of Pigalle, in the Nouvelle Athènes district, the Musée de la Vie Romantique is located in the home of Dutch painter Ary Scheffer, one of the leaders of the Romantic movement in France. Built in 1830, the house has retained all its period cachet. It houses works by the painter and his contemporaries over two floors, and regularly organizes art exhibitions, children's activities and concerts. The icing on the cake is the Rose Bakery tea room, located in the magnificent garden, for a gourmet break away from the hustle and bustle of Paris!

Mariela says: "I go there when I need greenery and a cozy little home!"

2- Castor Florist

Louis Géraud Castor is a former art dealer turned florist who opened his store in the Marais district in 2017. His artistic vision and painting-like bouquet compositions have made him the darling of the fashion scene. His clients include Prada, Saint Laurent and Christophe Lemaire...

Mariela's verdict: "For me, he's the most talented florist in Paris. Everyone should treat themselves to one of his bouquets!"

3- Les Puces de Saint Ouen

A true devotee of French art de vivre, Mariela never misses an opportunity to go hunting for one-of-a-kind finds at one of over one thousand antique dealers, second-hand traders and gallery owners at the Marché aux Puces. Far more than just a place to visit, the "Grenier du Monde" (World’s Yard Sale) is a real experience, both for vintage treasure-hunters and for tourists looking to discover the diversity of Paris’ periphery !

Mariela says: "This is my favorite place to find gifts for loved-ones or my home. I always look for something old, unique, personal and long-lasting..."

4- Hôtel de Crillon

Located on the Place de la Concorde, celebrities and fashion editors from all over the world meet here during Paris Fashion Week. More than just a trendy venue, this five-star (French “Palace” certification) hotel is a veritable historical monument, a symbol of French luxury and refinement. The restaurants nestled in this Haute Couture setting will delight the tastebuds of both sweet and savory epicureans!

Mariela says: "I love having a coffee at the Crillon, the cakes are just divine!"

5- Hôtel Amour

Located in the trendy SoPi (South Pigalle) district, this boutique hotel is a magnet for the Paris in-crowd. Designed by graffiti artist André under the eye of Thierry Costes, the Hôtel Amour attracts onlookers and fashionistas alike with its unpretentious, vintage aura. The Café Restaurant remains a must-try, especially for its green inner courtyard!

Mariela says: "It's the perfect place to have a cup of tea, pick up a book, read a bit, answer my emails..."

6- La Maison de l’Amérique Latine

True to her Paraguayan origins, Mariela has chosen a highly symbolic Parisian address. A hotspot for Latin American culture and diplomacy in Paris, this exceptional site on the Boulevard Saint-Germain occupies two 18th-century mansions. A true institution, it is an essential meeting place in Paris for who’s who in the Latin American community. Don't miss the restaurant's incredible setting under a huge glass roof in the middle of the garden!

Mariela says: "The garden is magnificent and I love hearing the sound of my Latin American Spanish!"

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