Photo courtesy of Jeremy Raza
All the girlies are flocking to Paris, and suddenly every Instagram caption is “Très chic” and every summer swipe is flooded with low-res Eiffel Tower pics and untouched escargot.
“Let’s go somewhere not basic,” they whisper... as they book yet another res at Girafe. Girafe (delicious, sure) is about as “hidden” as the Mona Lisa — and yes, I have them both starred on Maps. Do as I say, not as I panic-order foie gras at L’Avenue.
In my noble quest for something a little less obvious, I called on Julianne Fraser, marketing maven and certified anti-tourist. Julianne is the founder of Dialogue NYC, the influencer whisperer behind cult-loved brands like Sakara Life, Ghia, Seed and Shiseido.
She was building brand communities before your favorite creator even knew what an affiliate link was — AKA, she’s not just in the game, she helped design the rulebook.
Though Julianne now lives in a painfully chic corner of Williamsburg with her family, she spends her summers in the Southwest of France.
So when she offered to craft us a Paris guide that doesn’t include Gigi? I said “oui, oui” faster than you can say "carafe de rosé."
I love Shabour for its cozy, sit-at-the-bar vibes and insane menu. Fusing French and Israeli cuisine, this spot has rightfully earned two stars. Don’t miss ordering their mousse au chocolat finished with fruity olive oil and topped with crunchy salt.
Montezuma Café is the perfect spot for dinner with friends; it has a creative crowd, an amazing natural wine list and delicious food. They also have an insane sound system.
My husband and I hosted our wedding here — it’s a Paris staple and my (not so hidden) secret for visitors to Paris. The chef, Yves Camdeborde, is known for pioneering “bistronomy” and serves up generous dishes inspired by his Southwest France roots. The bold should order the Boudin Noir Macaroon (blood sausage… yes, just trust me).
Miznon dominated fast-casual Israeli cuisine in Paris for a decade, but Nour Comptoir entered the scene a couple of years ago and is insanely delicious. Their terrace is always sunny and awesome for people watching.
If you want the most quintessential Parisian bistro experience, L’Ami Jean is it. The chef, Stéphane is a friend of a friend and always serves copious and generous servings. Steer clear if you want menu modifications. Order whatever they recommend, and try it all!
Hôtel Particulier has a sexy, chic cocktail bar in its basement, which always feels super special.
They have the best scene for a glass of wine on a Friday night.
Reopened after renovations and is worth the hype.
In the Marais, super central and around great shops and restaurants. Very sexy and a touch risqué, with insane design. Highly recommend.
If you want to indulge, there’s nothing more luxe and special!
The designer Martin Brudnizki is a legend and has created an entire universe unlike any other.
Parici is where I found my eyeglasses that I get 10 compliments on every time I wear. The owner, Parisima, is a wizard at finding the perfect pair for your face shape.
The most iconic cooking store, where professional chefs shop to stock their kitchens. The place to look if you want to invest in forever cookware.
Jinji is a menswear store, but I always find the most epic Japanese brands with high quality and unique fits.
My absolute favorite gallery to discover emerging designers and to be inspired by the merging of interior design and art. It’s like sitting in a chic Parisian’s living room.
A gift shop showcasing artisans who make one-of-a-kind objects. I always find the most meaningful home decor items every time I go.
If you’re in Paris for an extended time, schedule a massage at this salon. It’s no fuss, not super luxe, but the masseuses are incredibly talented. Come here for an affordable Tui Na massage that will work out all the kinks of your flight.
Get dressed up and treat yourself to tea time at Le Meurice for a very special experience. Famed pastry chef, Cédric Grolet, was named the best pastry chef in 2018 (the year before our Tea Time Wedding we held at Le Meurice!) His creativity will blow your mind. If you don’t want to sit for a full tea time, you can pick up a pastry around the corner at his pastry shop.
It's a really special experience if you love to cook!