Hôtel Montalembert

Most Parisian hotels, for better or worse, fit comfortably into one category or another — the bohemian boltholes, the lavish luxury hotels, the impeccably styled minimalist boutiques. But like a lot of the best hotels, the Hôtel Montalembert defies categorization. It’s on the Left Bank but it’s far from bohemian; it’s stylish but not without substance; it’s classic without being stuck in the past. For its versatility it misses out on a bit of publicity, but there are quite a few old Paris hands who try not to stay anywhere else.

It’s a Twenties Beaux-Arts building, but the interiors as they are today benefit from extensive, tasteful renovations balancing the subtly contemporary with the traditionally luxe. Pierre Frey silk curtains and smart Bisazza tile mosaics amiably share the spotlight with tech must-haves — interactive flatscreens, free wi-fi — making for a room that’s relaxed and plugged-in in equal measure, prepared to accommodate any need. Bathrooms, meanwhile, make up for their modest footprint with Carrara marble and luxe amenities.

There’s a little more space to spread out on the terrace and in the restaurant, and the Salon Gallimard, the library with its cozy little fireplace, is named for the publishing house next door — it’s no stretch to imagine some literary deals have been done in these leather armchairs over the years. Get that imagination humming with a lively menu of cocktails: classics, charming originals, and effervescent “spritzes.”