When it comes to Parisian neighborhoods that embody the city's intellectual and artistic heritage, few places can match Saint Germain. Ahead of moving to the City of Lights, I was always drawn to the 6th arrondissement for its creative aura with cobblestoned rue’s lined with book shops, literary salons, and street performers. The area has long been a mecca for creative minds, from Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso, to contemporary artists and writers drawing inspiration from this vibrant neighborhood.
In 2021, the Parisian landmark, the Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain, a MICHELIN Guide Hotels Plus property, received a renovation adding a new level of luxury to this historic property and reviving its creative haven roots for those seeking inspiration and a hint of opulence. The hotel's storied history dates back to 1642, and over the years, it has been a favorite haunt for artists, writers, and intellectuals from around the world. James Joyce, Léo Ferré, and T.S. Eliot have all stayed at the hotel, leaving their indelible mark on this magical place.
Located in a beautiful 18th-century mansion that has been meticulously restored to preserve its charm, the 42 individually appointed room hotel sits conveniently just a stone's throw away from the Seine and Paris’ iconic Laperouse alongside other notable landmarks including the Louvre, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. The recent renovation of the Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain has preserved the building's rich heritage, while also incorporating modern touches and amenities that make it a true luxury destination.
As soon as you walk into the lobby you’re met with interiors marrying classic and contemporary design elements peppered with carefully curated art and antiques creating a timeless and elegant ambiance. One of the unique features of the Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain is its focus on creative immersion. The hotel offers a range of workshops and activities designed to inspire guests and engage them in the cultural life of the neighborhood. From art classes and literary salons to culinary workshops and wine tastings, there is something for everyone who seeks to tap into Saint Germain's vibrant creative spirit.
The hotel's signature suite, the James Joyce Suite, is a tribute to the famous Irish writer who spent many hours in the hotel and completed his "cathedral of prose," Ulysses, in one of the rooms. The suite is set under the roof of the hotel and transposes the bohemian imagination into a luxurious reality: with its exposed beams, attic space, and unobstructed view of the Paris rooftops, its the perfect place for sipping cocktails and watching the world go by. For those looking for a more social experience, down on the ground floor, a bar also tributes to the great writer and serves as an intimate setting to chat with like-minded guests in a space bringing the quintessential warmth of an English club. Yet, it is still decidedly a very Parisian place.
In addition, the hotel's restaurant Les Parisiens is a destination in itself, with Top Chef alum Thibault Sombardier serving up culinary masterpieces that are nothing short of spectacular, each one a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors. French classics like melt-in-your-mouth foie gras to modern cuisine such as the delicate sea bass crudo celebrate the finest ingredients and the artistry of the chef. The restaurant's intimate setting, with its plush banquettes and elegant design, creates the perfect ambiance for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
For those suffering from a creative block, book a self-care day at the hotel's wellness center offering a range of spa treatments and a fitness center to get the creative juices flowing. The Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain is not just a hotel; it's a lifestyle. Its commitment to luxury, creativity, and cultural immersion makes it a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the best of Parisian life and slip back into the early aught days of some of the greatest creatives. Whether you are an artist, writer, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and elegance, the hotel offers an unforgettable escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Book your stay at the Pavilion Faubourg Saint-Germain on MICHELIN Guide Hotels app and site.
Want a taste of France without the flight? Check out these Bastille Day celebrations in the United States. From the Tin Building in New York to One MICHELIN Star Camphor in Los Angeles, these restaurants are bringing the celebrations ashore for Bastille Day.
NEW YORK
The Tin Building by Jean-Georges is throwing a Bastille Day bash on July 14th from 6pm to 9pm. With over 50,000 square feet of market and retail space, the celebration will recreate the feeling of Montmartre, a buzzing artistic and culinary neighborhood in Paris. With excellent food options all around, French violinist Adriene Chevalier's quartette and accordion player Will Holshouser will perform live, creating a phenomenal atmosphere.
Jean-Georges Vongeritchen is the pioneer behind The Tin Building, as well as two MICHELIN star Jean-Georges, which has been thriving for over 25 years. Raised in France, Jean-Georges has impressed diners worldwide with his impeccable attention to detail, focus on seasonality, and nuanced flavors.
After training at Three MICHELIN Star (and Green Star) The French Laundry and Two MICHELIN Star Le Taillevent, Chef John Fraser has led several MICHELIN-starred restaurants. His new brasserie, La Marchande, serves reimagined French cuisine with global ingredients. Highlights include the Grand Seafood Tower and Dover Sole with vermouth-lime butter. In celebration of Bastille Day, La Marchande is offering 25% off French wines.
CALIFORNIA
Camphor in Los Angeles is serving a special menu in celebration of Bastille Day featuring steak and a variety of seafood dishes. Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George pay homage to their global upbringings while letting classic French flavors shine.
Hero image: Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain
All photos courtesy of Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain
