Croissant & Culture

My first matter of business is always a food tour. I love the ones that explore Montmartre best. On the first day you’re tired, a little overwhelmed, and all you really want to do is eat and sleep—so a walking food tour is perfect. Walk, eat, and then head back to your room at bedtime, full and happy.

I love to wander Paris aimlessly, especially at night when the buildings glow and the city feels almost theatrical. In the mornings, I wake up, grab my coffee and croissant, and head straight to the Musée d’Orsay to lose myself among the Impressionists. To me, the Orsay holds the art that is the real Paris. On a nice day, I always make time for the Rodin Museum. Seeing those sculptures outdoors, bathed in sunlight, is breathtaking.

I also love finding a karaoke bar and blending in with the Parisians—they really do love karaoke. And I always go to Notre Dame. Always. We almost lost her. I’ve mourned relatives and worked through real issues in my life in those pews. They’re sacred to me, and I never forsake that part of my journey. Afterward, I go out and to the left to Odette for coffee and a few mini cream puffs, and I sit across the street to look back at Notre Dame.

I love Montmartre. We usually have a portrait done by one of the artists in the square. I have a portrait from the day I was engaged at the Eiffel Tower, and portraits of all my children when they were young. They are my favorite items in my home—true treasures.

• Chez Mademoiselle—cozy, indoor and outdoor dining. Wonderful food and wine.

• La Maison Rose—instagrammable but such a cute and delicious delight.

• Le Soufflé—soufflés for days!

• Le Relais de l'Entrecôte—steak frites.

• Pierre Hermé—these are the best macarons and it's not even close.

• Flam’s—when you need food fast.

• Mamiche—bakery heaven. Just follow the smell of butter.

• A street crèpe. Get one. Try a "sucre" crèpe. It’s just plain with sugar. And, as an American... you have to get a Nutella crèpe.

• Le Trein Bleu—it’s beautiful and a national wonder.

• Pink Mama—because sometimes you want Italian food, even in Paris. Beautiful, fun, and hard to get into.

• Le Refuge des Fondus—fondue, wine, bread, communal tables, baby bottles, music, and LOTS of fun.