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) Town Hall of The 11th Arrondissement

2. (top right) More Chocolat Chaud

3. (bottom left) Near Pompidou Center

4. (bottom right) Cafes near Bastille

Joyeuses fêtes, dear Paris Lovers!

The holiday season is here, and we’ve been enjoying the city’s festive atmosphere in small, meaningful ways. This week, we took a quiet stroll along the canal, soaking in the crisp air and the soft glow of holiday lights. We paused to watch a boat pass through the locks, a simple moment that completely captured our little Lion’s attention and curiosity. It’s these everyday scenes that remind us to slow down and appreciate the season.

Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful holiday filled with moments like these!

LINKING YOU TO PARIS

➡️ 20 Cult-Favorite French Pharmacy Products That Are Worth the Hype: From Condé Nast Traveler - For skincare aficionados, a non-negotiable on any trip to France is a visit to the French pharmacies where high-quality skincare products are sold at an affordable price.

➡️ A Miracle: Notre-Dame’s Astonishing Rebirth From the Ashes: From NYT - Restoration will continue on parts of the cathedral for years, but as a feat of sheer military-grade organization, expertise and craftsmanship, the achievement thus far is astonishing and historic.

➡️ Where to Eat in Paris During the Holidays – Christmas and New Year’s: From HipParis - Of all French holidays, Christmas and New Year’s are celebrated in heightened gastronomic pomp. This is when the most refined French delicacies are on honor, from the finest grade oysters to rich foie gras and from truffled heritage hens to special reserve champagne.

➡️ The Ultimate Francophile Gift Guide: From HipParis - Are you ready to infuse a touch of French allure into your holiday festivities? We’ve searched high and low to handpick the most exquisite gifts and treasures to evoke la belle vie.

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PARIS CAFES

Hôtel du Nord Brasserie

Situated along the picturesque Saint Martin Canal, Hôtel du Nord Brasserie is a Parisian gem steeped in history and charm. Built in 1912, the building has witnessed decades of Parisian life, from its humble beginnings as a modest hotel to its transformation into a beloved bistro-restaurant. Its zinc bar, black-and-white tiled floors, and red leather banquettes evoke the timeless elegance of 1930s Paris, while the terrace offers a serene view of the canal, perfect for sunny afternoons.

The menu is a celebration of traditional French cuisine, featuring dishes like duck confit, boeuf bourguignon, and a truffled Croque Monsieur. On Sundays, the brasserie slows down to host a relaxed brunch, inviting guests to savor the laid-back charm of the neighborhood.

For me, Hôtel du Nord holds a special place in my heart. It was the setting of my first Parisian date with Laura. Jet-lagged but eager, I let her guide me through a menu of French classics. While I bravely tackled foie gras only to impress her (a truth I confessed months later), the evening left me enchanted by both the restaurant and the girl.

Hôtel du Nord is a slice of Parisian history. Whether you’re drawn by its cinematic past or its cozy ambiance, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Parisian experience in a quintessential local neighborhood.

JOIE DE VIVRE

Celebrate the Holidays Parisian Style with a Bûche de Noël

The holidays are a time to indulge in life’s sweetest pleasures, and nothing embodies the French joie de vivre quite like the Bûche de Noël. This iconic dessert, shaped like a festive Yule log, is a centerpiece of French Christmas celebrations and a delicious way to bring a little Parisian magic to your holiday table.

A Sweet Slice of History

The tradition of the Bûche de Noël dates back to the 19th century, inspired by the ancient custom of burning a large log in the hearth to mark the winter solstice. As fireplaces grew smaller, the log was replaced with a symbolic dessert—crafted from sponge cake, rolled with rich buttercream, and decorated to resemble a real log, complete with bark-like textures, meringue mushrooms, and powdered sugar "snow."

Why It’s So Parisian

The Bûche de Noël is more than just a dessert; it’s a work of art. Parisian pâtisseries elevate this humble log into a masterpiece, with flavors ranging from classic chocolate and coffee to modern twists like pistachio-raspberry or exotic mango-passionfruit. These creations exemplify the French love of beauty, craftsmanship, and indulgence.

Bring the Tradition Home

You don’t need to book a flight to Paris to enjoy this holiday treat. Making your own Bûche de Noël is easier than you think—and it’s a wonderful way to infuse your celebrations with a touch of French flair. Below, you’ll find a recipe for a classic chocolate Bûche de Noël that’s sure to impress your guests and transport you to a cozy Parisian café.

Click below to download a classic Bûche de Noël recipe!

A PEEK INTO HISTORY

Christmas in Paris Through the Ages

Christmas in Paris has long been a season of light, joy, and tradition. The city’s festive spirit dates back centuries, with its roots in religious celebrations and community gatherings. By the Middle Ages, Parisian churches like Notre Dame hosted elaborate midnight masses, drawing crowds to marvel at the nativity scenes and hear the soaring hymns.

In the 19th century, Paris began to embrace the more modern, secular aspects of Christmas. Department stores like Le Bon Marché and Galeries Lafayette introduced dazzling window displays and festive decorations, turning holiday shopping into an enchanting experience. Around the same time, the tradition of Christmas markets began to take hold, with vendors selling handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and seasonal treats—a custom that continues today at markets like the one on the Champs-Élysées.

Paris also played a role in popularizing the Christmas tree. While the tradition originated in Germany, it gained popularity in France during the 19th century, particularly after the Franco-Prussian War, when Alsatian customs began to influence Parisian culture.

Today, Christmas in Paris is a blend of old and new. From the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower to the ice rinks and carousels scattered across the city, the season is a time of wonder and togetherness. Whether you’re strolling through the illuminated streets or enjoying a warm drink at a café, the magic of Christmas in Paris is timeless.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
The Christmas Waltz (in FRENCH) – Tatiana Eva-Marie & Avalon Jazz Band

This week’s pick is a delightful French rendition of The Christmas Waltz by Tatiana Eva-Marie & Avalon Jazz Band. While the song nods to the Christmas season, its jazzy, nostalgic vibe feels more like a celebration of the holidays—a time to slow down, connect with loved ones, and soak in the warmth of the season.

For me, this time of year in Paris is magical. The city feels friendlier, with festive markets, cheerful greetings, and a slower pace that invites reflection and joy. I’m sharing this track because it’s perfect for diversifying your holiday playlist, whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home.

Add a touch of Parisian charm to your holiday season playlist with this beautiful tune!