SO/ Paris
The setting?
Who would have bet that this old concrete prefecture building would become a bold 5-star hotel on the banks of the Seine between Bastille and Notre-Dame. This property, part of the Ennismore lifestyle group, occupies the top ten floors, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the City of Light, a Codage spa, and a restaurant that—naturally—features a Paris rooftops already mythical.
The style?
It has a charmingly quirky vibe with its tulip-shaped columns and plump orange armchairs, straight out of the ’60s. But it’s also very modern, with its many pieces of contemporary art, and, finally, pleasantly warm, with its stone and wood.
The rooftop?
It's at number 16e It all begins on the top floor, in this chic bar with its impeccable design: an interplay of mirrors, a black stone bar, and the deep blue of the carpet—a nod to the Seine. We curl up on this sofa, which undulates beneath its woolly, milky-white curls. And you treat yourself to the finest of delights: the 360° view that takes you on a tour of the capital’s legendary monuments. So take your time sipping a Hamer or a Bloody Bonnie. Who will be your Clyde?
The restaurant?
One floor below, to get to know Bonnie: the floor-to-ceiling windows that line the Parisian restaurant From floor to ceiling, the atmosphere grabs you right away. A psychedelic carpet and benches with promising curves: the Space Age inspiration is definitely there. We made sure to reserve a table on the terrace, beneath this kaleidoscope of mirrors that reflects—almost—all of Paris: the artwork by Olafur Eliasson and Sébastian Behmann is just as dizzying as the view. We order a classic, so-French pea soup or the fried chicken with BBQ sauce: yes, the menu draws from both sides of the Atlantic and offers a few dishes to share, like the truffle croque-monsieur or the delicious Bonnie’s Brookie.
How many keys?
Saffron yellow, shades of blue, wood, and leather: the 162 rooms exude beauty—a simple, delicate beauty, gently caressed by the light streaming in. Before turning off the light—depending on the view you’ve chosen—be sure to take a moment to admire the Angel of the Bastille or the Eiffel Tower.
What makes the difference?
A throwback to the 1960s in terms of decor, and a three-part evening—all with that superb view from the bar to the restaurant—ending at the club with its disco-style atmosphere.
SO Paris Hotel
10 Agrippa d’Aubigné Street,
75004 Paris
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The Fantasy
A name that perfectly captures the fresh vibe of this new spot tucked away on Rue Cadet, in the bustling Faubourg neighborhood Montmartre and the Swedish designer's first Paris location Martin Brudnizki. What is the greatest luxury of this 5-star hotel? Its fantastic garden, an oasis of greenery that stretches out before the restaurant’s glass wall: here, the architect pays tribute to the Cadet brothers, famous 16th-century gardeners who supplied the court with fruits and vegetables. From greens like tender shoots to sunny yellows and delicate coral hues: botanical motifs are woven into everything from the floral wallpaper to the glass sconces in the 73 guest rooms. If possible, opt for one of the suites with a terrace where you can relax after a treatment in the Spa Under the Holidermie banner. Diners flock here to sample Dominique Crenn’s cuisine. Now back in France, the only French female chef to have earned three Michelin stars in the United States showcases her whimsical flair combined with formidable creativity. You’ll find her creations throughout the menus at the Poppy Café, the Golden Poppy, and, of course, in the tapas at the rooftop bar, which offers lovely views of Paris from its cozy setting.
What makes the difference?
The new spot to chill out without feeling guilty: California’s healthy side shines through in every appetizer. And you’ll fall in love with these cocktails, directly inspired by the history of the West Coast—starting with the legendary Mai Tai.
La Fantaisie Hotel
24 Cadet Street,
75009 Paris
TOO Hotel
Do you prefer a view of the Seine or the Eiffel Tower? Designed by Laurent Taïeb, the Too Hotel has taken over the top floor of Jean Nouvel’s Tour Duo 2 in the 13th arrondissemente arrondissement, to enjoy a bird's-eye view of Paris. A 4-star hotel which promises more, since the 139 rooms—ranging from 25 to 43 m²—overlook the capital. Here, everything is “Too” without being over the top—provided you’re a fan of Philippe Starck, who has infused the hotel with his whimsical style. Like a glass cube suspended in the sky, the Too Restaurant features Chef Benjamin Six’s globally inspired cuisine and desserts from the Pierre Hermé collection. 21e Top floor: Everyone heads up to the capital’s highest rooftop, 122 meters above ground. And it’s certainly no less festive: DJ sets, live concerts, and themed parties liven up the venue several times a week. But don’t let that distract you from the huge glass-enclosed terrace—the view is, quite literally, breathtaking.
What makes the difference?
One of a kind, the spa at 17e The floor features Ulé treatments, a French brand whose plants are grown on its own vertical farm just a stone's throw from Paris, and also boasts a terrace with a 10-person hot tub.
TOO Hotel
65 Bruneseau Street
75013 Paris
Pascale Missoud
The TOO Hotel restaurant © Jérôme Galland
