Lazy Afternoons & Local Bites: A Taste of Paris Life

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Advisor - Lucas El'Osta
Curated By

Lucas El'Osta

  • Paris

  • Arts & Culture

  • City Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Slow Travel

  • Foodie

Advisor - Lazy Afternoons & Local Bites: A Taste of Paris Life
Curator’s statement

Paris is where I escape the pace of New York—and surrender to slow, golden afternoons. Mornings begin with flaky pain au chocolat from the nearest boulangerie, and somehow, they stretch effortlessly into late lunches, quiet gardens, and moments that ask nothing but presence. It’s a city that reminds me to breathe, bite, and just be.

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Things to do in Paris

  • Mornings with Pain au Chocolat: Start your day like a true Parisian: slow, sweet, and buttery. My go-to? A perfectly flaky pain au chocolat from a local boulangerie, devoured on a park bench with no rush in sight.

  • Picnic at Jardin du Luxembourg: A lazy afternoon favorite—grab wine, cheese, berries, and a book. Find shade under a chestnut tree and let the day melt into golden hour.

  • Rooftop drinks at Perruche: Rosé with a view? Oui, please. Perruche is all about summer evenings, sunset light, and stylish locals sipping above the city’s rooftops.

  • Walk (or bike) along the Seine: Whether you ride or stroll, this river trail gives you postcard views at every turn. Bonus points for catching the sparkle of the Eiffel Tower as the sun dips.

  • Café-hopping in Le Marais: Trendy, delicious, and full of character. Spend a few hours hopping from café to café, people-watching with an espresso or spritz in hand.

  • Dior Gallery visit: A must for fashion lovers—this intimate museum celebrates the legacy of Dior in stunning, Instagram-worthy rooms. Go early to beat the crowds.

  • Sunset at Parc de Belleville: One of Paris’ best-kept secrets, this hilly park gives you a less-touristy view of the skyline—and it’s perfect for a quiet moment or cute photo shoot.

  • Late dinner at L’Avenue: Yes, it’s a scene. Yes, it’s fabulous. Come for the vibe, the truffle pasta, and the chance to feel like you’re in a French fashion editorial.

  • Brunch at Maison Sauvage: Covered in wild greenery and always buzzing, this spot in Saint-Germain is as charming as it gets. Their terrace is perfect for slow mornings with eggs, avocado toast, and maybe… a mimosa or two.

  • A Seine cruise at sunset: Classic, yes—but magical. Watching the city glow from the water, with the breeze in your hair and a glass of wine in hand, is one of those moments where you feel exactly where you’re meant to be.

Places to eat & drink in Paris

  • L’Avenue: Fashion meets flavor. Come for the truffle pasta, stay for the scene—it’s where the glam crowd lunches (and lingers).

  • Café de Flore: An iconic classic. Order a chocolat chaud or café crème and feel like a 1960s movie star watching the world go by in Saint-Germain.

  • Maison Sauvage: A jungle of flowers on the outside, full of brunch magic inside. It’s buzzing, beautiful, and always a vibe.

  • Le George – Four Seasons George V: Elegant, light Italian cuisine with impeccable service and a chic setting. Perfect for a romantic lunch or stylish celebration.

  • Girafe: Seafood with a view—and what a view! Dine with the Eiffel Tower dramatically behind you. A true “treat yourself” spot.

  • Il Seguito: A low-key Italian gem in the 11th. Cozy, intimate, and beloved by locals, it’s perfect for a comforting pasta night away from the crowds. The truffle rigatoni? Un rêve.

  • Hotel Costes Bar: Moody, sexy, and oh-so Parisian. Grab a cocktail and soak up the candlelit atmosphere.

  • Breizh Café: For when you need a crêpe fix (sweet and savory). Breton-style and beyond delicious.

  • Septime La Cave: A cozy little wine bar from the team behind Septime. Come for natural wine, stay for local cheese and charcuterie.

  • LouLou Paris: Al-fresco dining meets museum garden. Tucked behind the Louvre, this chic spot is perfect for lunch with a view—and a chilled glass of rosé.

Need to know

  • Paris is magical, but it’s still a big city—stay alert: Keep an eye on your belongings in tourist-heavy areas like the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and the metro. Common scams include fake petitions, bracelet tricks, or people “helping” with tickets. Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to say non, merci.

  • Always travel with insurance—seriously: I recently needed medical care in Paris and didn’t have coverage… I don’t recommend that drama. If you’re planning your trip and want peace of mind, I can help you arrange travel insurance through Fora partners—easy, elegant, and essential.

  • Bring a reusable water bottle and skip the €1 street bottles: Vendors selling bottled water near tourist spots often offer questionable quality—stick with your own and refill it at the many public fountains around the city (they’re everywhere). Eco-friendly and chic.

  • Other tips: Reserve restaurants in advance (especially for lunch or dinner after 8 pm), wear shoes you can walk in (but still look chic), and speak a few words in French—even a simple bonjour opens doors. And above all? Don’t rush. Paris is best enjoyed slowly, one long lunch at a time.

Advisor - Lucas El'Osta

Travel Advisor

Lucas El'Osta

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