OUR WEEK IN PARIS

Snapshots From Paris

Each week, I share a handful of photos that tell the story of our Paris. From quick phone snaps to more carefully composed shots, these images are little postcards of our life in Paris, inviting you to see the city through our eyes.

1. (top left) The Conciergerie

2. (top right) A perfect fall day in Tuileries Garden

3. (bottom left) The Louvre - Cour Carrée

4. (bottom right) The Lion enjoying a country road walk

After a lovely weekend spent with family in rural Burgundy, we're back in Paris and our usual city adventures. Fall has returned, bringing cooler temperatures and the perfect excuse to pull out our scarves for the first time this season. While I cherish the vibrant café terraces of warmer months, there's something uniquely comforting about cozying up in Parisian cafés as the weather cools, which is where I'm writing part of this week's edition, at Pause Café in the 11th.

LINKING YOU TO PARIS

➡️ Paris in November: What to Do, See & Expect: From Paris Eater - Paris in November is one of the calmest months in the calendar and it’s a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Okay the weather isn’t fantastic and the days are short but it’s perfect for early risers and those who want to cosy up in cafés and wine bars.

➡️ 20 of the Best Cafés in Paris: From Classic to Modern: From Frenchly - French café culture continues to inspire the world, with its romanticized terraces and leisurely ambiance. The visual and social appeal of these spaces is undeniable—creating a sense of community in a big city while keeping it buzzing (literally).

➡️ The Best Things to Do for Christmas in Paris: From Conde Nast Traveler - Christmas in Paris may not boast the winter-white scenes that often come with the holidays, but the city glows with thousands of lights as it transforms into the ultimate winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink below the Eiffel Tower and more than a dozen Christmas markets scattered across the city.

VISITING PARIS

Enjoy Beaujolais Nouveau Day at Paris's Best Wine Bars

Beaujolais Nouveau Day is a much-anticipated event in Paris, celebrated on the third Thursday of November each year. This day marks the release of the first wine of the season from the Beaujolais region, a light and fruity red wine that is meant to be enjoyed young. The tradition dates back to the early 20th century when winemakers in Beaujolais would race to get their first bottles to market, creating a festive atmosphere that has since become a global phenomenon.

To truly experience Beaujolais Nouveau Day in Paris, one must visit some of the city's best wine bars, where the new wine is often the star of the evening. Le Baron Rouge, located in the 12th arrondissement, is a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and excellent selection of wines. Another great choice is La Cave des Papilles in the 14th arrondissement, which offers a cozy setting and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the nuances of the new Beaujolais. For a more upscale experience, head to Legrand Filles et Fils, a historic wine shop and bar near the Palais Royal, where you can enjoy the wine in an elegant setting.

In addition to wine bars, numerous events are held across the city to celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau Day. Many restaurants and bistros offer special menus featuring the new wine paired with traditional French dishes. Look out for events at places like Le Comptoir du Relais in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal with expertly paired wines. Additionally, some wine shops host tastings and educational sessions, providing an opportunity to learn more about the Beaujolais region and its winemaking traditions.

Participating in Beaujolais Nouveau Day is simple and enjoyable. Start by finding a local wine bar or restaurant that is celebrating the event, and make a reservation if possible, as these places can get quite busy. Once there, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, try the new wine, and perhaps even purchase a bottle to take home.

PARISIAN PICKS

Robert Tycen Hauser Picks Café Beaubourg

Welcome to Parisian Picks, our new section where locals share their favorite spots and hidden gems in Paris. If we continue with this section (which is up to you), a Parisian will recommend a place they love each week and tell you why it’s one of their favorite spots in the city.

We'd love to hear your thoughts on this new section by replying to this email! Do you enjoy hearing recommendations from Parisians? Let us know what you think and if there are any specific types of recommendations you'd like to see. Your feedback helps us make The Paris Love Letter even better for you.

Recommendation: 

Robert Tycen Hauser recommends Café Beaubourg, a Paris landmark near the Centre Pompidou. It's an excellent spot for working and people-watching, with a spacious interior and terrace. The minimalist, industrial décor from the '90s, designed by Philippe Starck, adds to its unique charm. Enjoy a meal or drink while you work on your laptop, as the staff are accommodating and won't disturb you.

Since Robert told me about Café Beaubourg, I have spent several hours working on their terrace. It is, indeed, an excellent cafe for working!

Robert Tycen Hauser is a seasoned real estate agent based in Paris with over 15 years of experience in apartment searches, management, buying, selling, and rentals. Known for his deep knowledge of the Parisian property market and his dedication to client satisfaction, Robert is your go-to expert for all things real estate in the City of Light. You can reach him via email at [email protected].

JOIE DE VIVRE

Explore Paris from Afar with These Paris Based Novels

Living the Parisian joie de vivre isn't just about being in Paris; it's about embracing the spirit and charm of the city, no matter where you are. One delightful way to stay connected with Paris is through literature. These must-read books about Paris will transport you to its cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks, allowing you to experience the city's magic from afar.

1. "A Moveable Feast" by Ernest Hemingway: This classic memoir by Ernest Hemingway offers a glimpse into the bohemian life of 1920s Paris. Through a series of vignettes, Hemingway recounts his experiences as a young writer in the city, mingling with literary giants like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Gertrude Stein. "A Moveable Feast" is a love letter to Paris, filled with evocative descriptions and timeless wisdom.

2. "The Paris Wife" by Paula McLain: For a fictionalized account of Hemingway's Paris years, "The Paris Wife" by Paula McLain is a compelling read. The novel is told from the perspective of Hadley Richardson, Hemingway's first wife, and digs into their tumultuous relationship against the backdrop of the vibrant Parisian literary scene.

3. "Paris to the Moon" by Adam Gopnik: In "Paris to the Moon," New Yorker writer Adam Gopnik chronicles his five-year stay in Paris with his family. Through a series of essays, Gopnik explores the everyday joys and challenges of life in Paris, from navigating the city's bureaucracy to savoring its culinary delights. His witty and insightful observations make this book a delightful read.

4. "The Elegance of the Hedgehog" by Muriel Barbery: Set in a posh Parisian apartment building, "The Elegance of the Hedgehog" weaves together the lives of its residents, including a reclusive concierge and a precocious twelve-year-old girl. Muriel Barbery's novel is a philosophical exploration of beauty, art, and the human condition, all set against the backdrop of Paris.

5. "The Little Paris Bookshop" by Nina George: Nina George's "The Little Paris Bookshop" tells the story of Jean Perdu, a bookseller who runs a floating bookshop on the Seine. Perdu has a unique talent for prescribing books to heal his customers' souls, but he struggles with his own heartbreak. This enchanting novel is a celebration of literature, love, and the magic of Paris.

PARIS HIDDEN GEMS

Les Caves du Louvre Historic Wine Cellars and Tastings

Les Caves du Louvre offers a unique wine-tasting experience that combines the rich history of the city with the art of oenology. Located just a stone's throw from the Louvre Museum, these historic wine cellars date back to the 18th century and were originally built by King Louis XV's sommelier. Today, they provide an immersive journey through the world of French wine, making it a must-visit for both wine enthusiasts and history buffs.

As you descend into the cellars, you'll be transported back in time, surrounded by the original stone walls and vaulted ceilings that have witnessed centuries of Parisian history. The guided tour takes you through various interactive rooms, each dedicated to a different aspect of winemaking. From the terroir and grape varieties to the aging process and bottling, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of what makes French wine so exceptional.

One of the highlights of Les Caves du Louvre is the wine-tasting session, where you can sample a selection of exquisite wines from different regions of France. The knowledgeable sommeliers are on hand to guide you through the tasting, offering insights into the unique characteristics of each wine and tips on how to appreciate their flavors and aromas. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned wine lover, this experience is both educational and enjoyable.

In addition to the wine-tasting tours, Les Caves du Louvre also offers personalized wine-blending workshops, where you can create your own custom blend to take home. This hands-on activity allows you to experiment with different grape varieties and proportions, resulting in a bottle of wine that is uniquely yours. With its blend of history, education, and interactive experiences, Les Caves du Louvre provides a memorable and enriching way to explore the world of French wine.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Gauvain Sers - Les oubliés

Gauvain Sers, a contemporary French singer-songwriter, is known for his evocative lyrics and folk-inspired melodies.

"Les oubliés," released in 2019, tells the story of forgotten rural communities in France, highlighting their struggles and resilience. With its powerful message and Sers' emotive delivery, this song captures the essence of modern French chanson, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in contemporary French music.