Our Week in Paris

Each week, I share a handful of photos. These images are like little postcards of our life in Paris, inviting you to see the city through our eyes. I also include links to places we've visited and think might be worth trying, offering you a taste of authentic and hidden experiences in Paris.

We started our weekend with breakfast at Au Comptoir, a cozy brasserie by the canal in the 10th. It's one of those perfect spots to nurse a morning coffee (Café Noisette in my case) and watch the Parisian morning play out. Our little Lion loved his pancakes. Truth be told, so did we. 😋

Later, we found ourselves back in a neighborhood where we used to live. Funny how some places just stick with you, isn't it? Our old apartment's windows used to look right over the square, and while we've moved on, this little corner of Paris still feels like home.

Lunch was at Paris-Féni, this great Indian place we keep coming back to. The food is fresh, healthy, and always hits the spot. While in the square, we couldn't resist stopping by Chambelland Oberkampf – a bakery we used to visit almost daily when we lived here. Their bread is still as good as we remembered. And I love the little fruit and veg shop on the corner.

We also walked past Ave Maria, a Brazilian restaurant where we used to dine when we lived in the neighborhood. It's quite a character – quirky decor and all – and seeing it brought back memories of some fun dinners (and wine) there.

Nothing fancy about our week, just revisiting old haunts that make Paris feel familiar. Sometimes the best parts of a city are the places you stumble upon and make your own.

Linking You to Paris

➡️ 24 of the best things to do in Paris: The Times explores diverse experiences, from cruising the Seine to exploring hidden micro-neighborhoods, offering a blend of architectural, cultural, and culinary delights for every traveler.

➡️ Read Your Way Through Paris: In this New York Times piece, Leïla Slimani, a Goncourt Prize winner, shares her personal insights on Paris and recommends books that reveal the city's hidden facets.

➡️ The 24 Best Bars in Paris: Condé Nast Traveler explores Paris's cocktail renaissance, spotlighting unique bars from hidden gems to grand venues, curated by local experts.

➡️ Five extraordinary night-time experiences around the world: This BBC article explores unique after-dark experiences, from cultural festivals to natural wonders, showcasing the excitement of nocturnal travel.

➡️ 30 Best Things to Do in Paris, According to Locals: Paris is explored through local insights, offering a mix of iconic landmarks and hidden gems, emphasizing the city’s cultural and culinary delights.

VISITING PARIS
Essential French Words For Visitors
(with useful resources)

I often get asked if it's possible to visit Paris without speaking French. The answer is a resounding yes—it's quite easy to get by in Paris without being fluent in French. However, making an effort to learn and use a few simple French phrases can demonstrate respect and help open doors during your visit.

Here are the basic, but essential words and phrases to add to your Parisian toolkit. And they’re very easy to learn/remember:

• Bonjour: This magic word is your key to polite interactions. Use it whenever you enter a shop or restaurant. Skipping it can be akin to not saying hello when entering someone's home.

• Merci: A simple thank you goes a long way in expressing gratitude.

• Au revoir: Saying goodbye is just as important as your initial greeting.

• Pardon: Use this on the street to politely get someone's attention or when navigating through crowds (like, getting off the metro).

You can take it a step further with these Common French Phrases for Travelers from Paris Insiders Guide. 'Je voudrais,' for example, is an easy and very polite way of asking for anything, from coffee to directions.

Use Google Translate to hear how these words and phrases sound. Just copy/paste the word or phrase into the text box and press the speaker icon.

Remember, while language can be a barrier, a little effort, and a smile can go a long way in making your Parisian adventure more enjoyable and memorable.

Here's a fantastic resource for anyone looking to learn or improve their French: 'Learn French with Alexa.' It offers several French courses and a YouTube channel filled with helpful resources. While I have no affiliation with it, I was a subscriber for a couple of years and found it helpful.

PARIS CAFES
Discovering Chez Marius

Near Gare de l'Est in the 10th arrondissement, Chez Marius is a quintessential Parisian bistro that perfectly captures the essence of traditional French dining, with subtle Italian influences from its chef who hails from the Dolomites. This hidden treasure, often visited by our friend, the Mystery Parisian, is precisely the type of place we want to feature in our upcoming guide—authentic, welcoming, and a bit off the beaten path.

Once an old wine bar, Yannick Aubrée, the creative mind behind Casimir, has transformed this space into a cozy bistro ideal for gatherings with friends. The decor is a quirky mix of carnivorous trophies and charming gingham tablecloths, complemented by an ornate wooden bar that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

At Chez Marius, the culinary magic is orchestrated by Chef Dimitri Gris, formerly of Louve, who brings a seafood-forward twist to traditional bistro fare. The menu is a delightful journey through fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting.

Among the offerings, the bone marrow stands out as a signature dish that encapsulates the essence of their creative menu. During my visit, I savored a delicious rigatoni with beef and shared a bowl of mussels that were equally delightful. The wine suggestions from Yannick were nothing short of incredible, perfectly complementing each dish.

The ambiance at Chez Marius is as inviting as the menu, with lively banter and a warm, welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. Although the menu is not available in English, the attentive staff are more than happy to explain the offerings and guide you through their culinary delights.

Conveniently located near both Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est, Chez Marius is a perfect stop for travelers. Early arrivals should take the opportunity to explore the Marché St-Quentin just across the street.

Reservations can be made by calling 01 45 80 46 27 or emailing [email protected]. Please note that reservations are not accepted through Instagram. Visit them from Tuesday to Saturday at 11 rue de Chabrol, Paris, France 75010.

THEN & NOW
A Bridge Through Time

Standing at the Pont des Arts today, I'm struck by how little and yet how much has changed since 1885. The elegant Cour Carrée of the Louvre still commands the same regal presence, its classical façade maintaining its timeless grace across 140 years.

But while the architecture remains steadfast, the scene on the bridge itself tells quite a different story! Gone are the dapper gentlemen in their top hats and tailcoats, and the ladies in their sweeping Victorian dresses who once promenaded here as if attending an open-air fashion show. Today's visitors are more likely to be sporting sneakers and selfie sticks than parasols and pocket watches.

Yet there's something wonderfully reassuring about how this view has endured. The same Seine still flows beneath, the same golden stone still glows in the Parisian light, and the same bridge still serves as one of Paris's most beloved meeting points – though I suspect those Victorian-era Parisians would be quite puzzled by our recent, but now deceased habit of attaching love locks to their elegant promenade!

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Ben L'Oncle Soul - Soulman

This week, we're featuring the feel-good vibes of Ben L'Oncle Soul with his hit song "Soulman." Known for his rich and soulful voice, Ben L'Oncle Soul brings a delightful blend of soul and Motown influences, making this track a must-add to any French playlist.

"Soulman" captures the essence of classic soul while infusing it with a modern twist, creating a tune that's both nostalgic and fresh. Let this uplifting melody brighten your day and transport you to a soulful Parisian groove.

Discover More with Paris Love Affair

If you're enjoying The Paris Love Letter, there's so much more to explore! Dive deeper into the Parisian experience with our curated offerings:

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We love sharing our passion for Paris with you and hope these resources enrich your journey with us. Merci, for being part of our community!