NEWS
EVENTS
An Insider’s Paris
Friday 11th October 2013 | Joss
Paris is the city of love. Its perfectly quaint architecture, romantic reputation and distinctly European manner sets it apart from the trendier Berlin, Prague and Budapest nightlife scene. But the truth is, those beautiful buildings are but a façade. Hidden behind the charm of French bohemian innocence lives an entire world to be discovered.
Located on 52 Rue de Saintonge in 3e, the third arrondissement, you will find a little hole in the wall Mexican restaurant. With only one table, one small seated bar and a line out the door, you’d think Canedelaria had the best tacos in town. Admittedly, the food is wonderful, but that’s not what has the Parisians gravitating towards the door. Past the table, past the seated bar, past the open kitchen, there is a small door. This small door opens up into a fantastic cocktail bar, where the trendy are plenty and the tourists are numbered. With amazing drinks and an even better atmosphere, this is a must for those who want to see more than the Eiffel Tower.
Candelaria’s newer sister bar, Le Glass, is located in the fashionable area of Pigalle on Rue Frochot. Pigalle, once conceived as a dangerous areas of Paris, is one of the more popular areas for bars and clubs, similar to our Shoreditch, Brixton or Peckham. Le Carmen also graces the streets of Pigalle. With a gorgeous, airy feel, this boudoir-style nightclub is a guaranteed fun night. 54 Rue Pigalle is home to Chez Moune, a dirtier and more decadent after hours hot spot. It’s the crowd that makes this place what it is and they only arrive after 1:30am.
For a quieter night away from the rush of Pigalle it has to be Chez Georges, an underground wine bar on Rue des Cannettes in Saint Germain. This cave like haunt is always packed but always a blast. Beware – it is always hot in the cave so be sure to leave that coat at home!
On Rue des Petites Ecuries, you will find a small, thoroughly French bar. Drinks are expensive but the atmosphere is equally indulgent. Just before midnight, the downstairs area opens up into a club, Le Pompon – a particular favourite with the locals. If dancing is your thing, there is no better place in Paris than Rex, a techno club on Boulevard Poissonnière. This club is all about the music and you will fast find yourself in the company of like-minded people, all who just want to have a good time.
So next time you’re in Paris, head down those back stairs, go down that side street, turn that unexpected corner and find yourself in a world you hadn’t quite imagined.
Joss Wyatt
