My 'little blue book'
After years of snooping around Paris & Avignon, these are some of my favorite shopping spots. From chocolate to books, from tea to textiles, take a spin through some of Paris' coolest shopping and nibbling...
Make notes as to your interest - we will detour to catch these spots along the way.
For lovers of writing - a paper and calligraphy shop since 1986.
Pure, refined, simple and timeless are the adjectives that best define the style of the pieces designed by Alix D. Reynis.
Another must for the foodie- The pastry pantry for experts and novices alike
Custom porcelain 100% designed, made and hand-painted in France
An immense contemporary china cabinet, La Tuile à Loup has, since its creation in 1974, taken on the mission to preserve an artisanal and artistic facet of French ceramics, an expression of beauty and expertise that was at risk of disappearing. Under the guidance of Eric Goujou, who took the reins of this sacred mission in 2006, our ongoing commitment and dedication are driven by several key factors.
Mad et Len manufactures everything artisanally from their atelier in the south of France. The black metal work is shaped and burned by hand; the perfumes are hand blended and the vegetal candles are hand-poured in small batches.
SInce 1886 Fauchon has lead the French gourmet scene. Renowned worldwide for its pastry expertise, FAUCHON offers you an experience of absolute pleasure through its new collection of macaroons, rich in colors and flavors.
Addicted to Macaroons? Laudree has most probably the best in Paris.
Alchemist Gustave Sennelier created an artist's supply shop on the left bank of the Seine in 1887 that has withstood the test of time. Across from the Louvre and steps from L'Ecole des Beaux-Arts, the shop's facade remains the same as it opened in the nineteenth century.
For all the foodies, this is a magical spot filled with every imaginable tool of the trade. Everyone knows the reputation of French cuisine—It is here that journey usually begins.
Vox Populi translates to ‘voice of the people.’ —To enter Pascale Palun’s vision— is to meet a cast of characters relishing the display of historic patina. A lost lover, a proud matriarch, a forlorn bachelor positioned in tableaux made from faded material and found history— An exquisite delight.
In February of 2008, Deyrolle went up in flames. Yet, after an outpouring of aid and support from artist and Parisians with memories of childhood visits, all was restored and we now can go on safari on the Rue du Bac. If any person— is not a fan of trophy hunting or exploitation of animals, it is me, yet this wonder is a must experience.
While it is now easy to find stateside, It is always fun to visit this shop where the full range of color and aroma can be enjoyed in the atmosphere of the left bank.
Valentina and Sébastien Nobile's spectacular glassware and idiosyncratic design sensibilities are a must not miss
With French pastries renowned the world over, the question I know everyone is asking is…who does the best in Paris?
No better place to people watch with scrumptous ice cream, than on the Isle St Louis behind the ever changing silhouette of the Notre Dame restoration.
Founded by the man who supplied King Louis XV with pastries. Since 1730, sugar, butter, flour and eggs have never looked or tasted better.
One of the best chocolate shops in Paris— What makes it so great? Opened in 1761, you feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you visit their oldest shop— which captures the magical ambiance of yesteryear.
If there is only one simple pleasure associated with the French— it is cheese. Like fine wine, the flavour, bredth and sophistication of French fromage is legendary.
If time travel mixed with exquisite aroma is your jam, step in to a forgotten French apothecary—filled with exotic aromas and silky emoliants— the worst ailment will be soothed.
An artisanal ceramics workshop in Paris, the only one of its kind, which takes up and modernizes the tradition of Parisian manufactures of the 18th century.
On Rue Madame near Luxembourg Gardens, artist and designer, Marin Montagut creates whimsical hand drawn pieces of porcelain, drinking glasses, textiles, and paper depicting famous spots throughout Paris or French phrases. I dare you not to smile...
Brightly colored and boldly patterned, the handprinted papers made by the French team are as enchanting as the 18th-century examples that inspired them.
In 1660, Nicolas and Pierre Mariage began voyaging on behalf Louis XIV's royal court for exotic goods: Pierre was sent to Madagascar and brother Nicolas made several trips to Persia & India. Today we can enjoy the complex aroma and taste of these historic voyages at afternoon tea in the Marais.
Founded by Karl Lagerfeld in 1999—7L is a bibliophile's wonderland. It is a must, if you are looking for ideas and inspiration, especially photography, architecture, fashion, and interior design.