By Aliyah Semillano
While Rain guided you through the most unmissable shows, where are the best places to enjoy a little respite? I’m sharing my definitive guide to Paris, a city steeped in oh-la-la clichés yet filled with hidden gems.
From the must-visit Alaïa exhibition to the most stylish restaurants overlooking the Seine, this is your go-to list for where to unwind between shows. Discover the cutest cafés, restaurants, and museums to steal a quiet moment away from the fashion chaos. See my insider guide on what to see and do, away from the runway, this Paris Fashion Week.
Chambre Noire
Tucked away in the bustling 1st arrondissement, Chambre Noire is a true hidden gem. With only ten cozy tables and an impeccable selection of natural wines, it sets the perfect mood for an intimate evening. The minimalist decor, warm lighting, and shelves stacked with wine bottles create a charming and inviting atmosphere.
The menu is curated to perfection, offering delectable snacks like Sicilian olives and shareable tapas. But if there’s one dish you absolutely must try, it’s the minced tuna with tomatoes and olive oil—it’s a revelation. Whether you choose to sit inside, bathed in the soft glow of illuminated bottles, or out on the terrace with its wooden tables adorned with dried flowers and candles, Chambre Noire promises a cute date night experience.
Bambino
Bambino is the ultimate evening escape, seamlessly blending dinner and dancing. Start with a laid-back yet refined meal before transitioning into a night of music and movement. Vinyl records line the walls, and a DJ spins the perfect mix of tracks, creating an effortlessly cool ambiance.
Sip on organic wine or a well-poured beer while enjoying the intimate, romantic setting—where the music is loud enough to set the mood but soft enough for easy conversation. Whether you’re with friends or soaking up the atmosphere solo, Bambino is the ideal spot to sway to the rhythm, enjoy a glass (or two) of wine, and create Parisian memories away from the fashion chaos.
Café Nuances
Café Nuances is the stylish Parisian hotspot you didn’t know you needed. Renowned for its dreamy rose matcha and vibrant aesthetic, it’s a magnet for the fashion crowd between shows. The ombré-colored floors and playful interiors make it the perfect setting for a mid-day escape.
On gloomy days, Café Nuances is a ray of sunshine, radiating warmth and charm. Whether you’re indulging in a quick caffeine fix or lingering over a matcha latte, it’s a must-visit for those who appreciate good design, good company, and, of course, good coffee.
Early June
For those craving a relaxed yet refined wine bar, Early June is a must-visit gem. Tucked along the Canal Saint-Martin, this intimate space is known for its natural wines and rotating small plates, showcasing seasonal ingredients with a contemporary twist.
The unpretentious yet stylish atmosphere makes it a perfect hideaway between shows. Think candlelit tables, rustic charm, and a curated selection of wines that will please even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re winding down after a long day of fashion madness or simply enjoying a moment of solitude, Early June offers a chic retreat with a glass of something exceptional in hand.
Maxim’s
Step into a time capsule of Parisian opulence at Maxim’s, the legendary Belle Époque restaurant where fashion’s elite have wined and dined for over a century. With its Art Nouveau interiors and gilded mirrors reflecting candlelit tables, Maxim’s remains an institution of elegance and indulgence.
The menu pays homage to classic French gastronomy—think escargots swimming in garlic butter, tender filet de boeuf, and decadent mille-feuille for dessert. Whether you’re here for a power lunch or an indulgent dinner, Maxim’s transports you to a bygone era of Parisian glamour, making it a must-visit for fashion lovers seeking a dose of history with their haute cuisine.
Musée du Louvre - Couture
For the first time ever, the Louvre is dedicating an exhibition to fashion with Musée du Louvre - Couture. This landmark exhibition explores the intersection of art and couture, showcasing iconic garments from centuries past to the present. Expect to see haute couture pieces displayed alongside classical masterpieces, highlighting the artistic dialogue between fashion and fine art.
A must-visit for those who appreciate the historical influence of fashion, this exhibition offers an unparalleled perspective on how style has evolved through the ages.
Dolce & Gabbana Exhibition at the Grand Palais
The Grand Palais plays host to Dolce & Gabbana: The Art of Fashion, a spectacular showcase of the Italian house’s opulent designs. From hand-embroidered gowns to lavishly adorned corsets, this exhibition is a feast for the eyes, celebrating the craftsmanship and theatricality that define Dolce & Gabbana’s world.
Expect grandeur, drama, and a dazzling display of iconic pieces that pay homage to Italian heritage and artisanal excellence.
Shana
For an effortlessly chic Parisian lunch, Shana is a top pick. Nestled in the heart of the city, this intimate eatery offers a curated menu of seasonal dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Think burrata with heirloom tomatoes, delicate seafood plates, and decadent desserts that feel indulgent yet refined.
With its understated elegance and relaxed atmosphere, Shana is the ideal place to escape the chaos of fashion week and savor a quiet yet stylish meal.
Hôtel Costes
After an evening of fine dining or exhibition hopping, follow up with a drink at Hôtel Costes—the ultimate spot for celebrity-watching and indulging in that signature Parisian glamour. The moody, dimly lit interiors, plush velvet banquettes, and intoxicating scent that lingers in the air make this an experience as much as a destination.
Sip on a signature cocktail—perhaps a Costes Spritz or a classic Old Fashioned—as you take in the scene of models, designers, and industry insiders unwinding after another whirlwind day. Whether you find yourself on the terrace or tucked into a secluded corner, Hôtel Costes is where fashion week’s magic lingers long into the night.
So whether you’re escaping the fashion week frenzy for a quiet moment or looking for the perfect spot to toast to another successful show, these Parisian gems offer the best of the city beyond the runway. Bon voyage et bon appétit!
