A Guide To Paris' Saint-Germain Neighborhood

Et Voilà! I am excited to share my go-to guide for exploring Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the 6th, my favorite arrondissement in Paris.

Nestled on the left bank of the Seine, this area is immersed in literary history by famous writers like Hemingway and Fitzgerald. But it's not just about the past – it's alive with chic boutiques, cozy cafés, and unique energy.

It's a place where culture and heritage come together relaxed and elegantly.

Saint Pearl - for a perfect brunch. They offer a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, along with delicious coffee and matcha products like matcha lattes, matcha cheesecake, and matcha brownies.

Cafe Nuances - decor designed by the architect studio Uchronia will make you want to stop here. For drinks the rose latte or the strawberry matcha! They also just released a new treat: "fior di latte" soft serve with a shot of coffee.

Bonjour Jacob - is a coffee shop with excellent choices of coffees, teas, matcha, cold or hot. Warm and friendly space with magazines from their handpicked selection worldwide. It's the perfect spot to relax, catch up on some reading, and enjoy your drink.

Poilâne Bakery - Apollonia Poilâne, a third-generation baker and entrepreneur, proudly runs her family's bakery, founded in 1932. She champions "retro-innovation," blending the best of the past with the best of today, always prioritizing quality over quantity. My favorite is always a pain au chocolat early in the morning but it is also a great bakery to pick up some bread for a picnic.©Jean François Aimé

The Newcomers:

Sugaar - the hottest and classiest resto in Saint-Germain, run by Joachim Rappaport, model and photographer Cate Underwood, and chef Anton Vasiliev. I'm especially proud that Cate and Anton are Ukrainians. Step inside to find white tablecloths, glowing candles, and beautiful tableware creating a perfect ambiance. The food is simply delicious, with chef Anton's creations stealing the show. My go-to is Carabineros, red shrimps, and scallops —it's a true delight. Perfect for a nightcap, date, or any special occasion.

Colvert - is a local "bistrorant" perfect for those who love special dishes and fine wines. Every day, the menu features generous and refined dishes made with high-quality ingredients. At lunch, enjoy a unique three-part menu that changes weekly based on the chef's inspiration and fresh arrivals. Each dish showcases the culinary team's talents. For dinner, only limited-edition specialties are available in small quantities, offering a unique dining experience.

Sauvage - a favorite neighborhood gem, around for several years now. It’s fun, easy, the food delivers and excellent natural wine selection. Your go-to for a great easy night, well-dressed people without the fuss. The menu is small and changes daily/frequently. They have a wine bar across the street if you end up needing to wait for a table.

Localino - "Localino" ("small restaurant") in Italian, and it truly lives up to its name with its cozy atmosphere. Try their signature dishes like Vitello Tonnato, Tortelli, and Ravioli with butter and sage. Pair your meal with a choice from their great half-Italian, half-French wine selection. Perfect for the authentic dining experience.

L’Avant Comptoir du Marché: one of the coolest spots in Paris, with the best butter. Open 7/7 and all day. Here, pig is king; go for the small tapas-style meat dishes — the menu changes often, so ask for recommendations. The crowd is a beautiful mix of locals and tourists, old and young, drinkers and eaters. Mostly natural wines, most of which are also available by the glass.

The Classics:

Le Petit Lutetia - if you're craving French classics, this spot has it all: perfect for sharing, a classic cellar, and a vibe blending Art Nouveau elegance with a welcoming staff. Start with Le Sportif, the minute chanterelles, then go for the rigatoni with morels or the extra pepper fillet for an authentic experience. You won't be disappointed.

Silencio des Prés - for a great meal, check out the roasted free-range chicken with truffles, sole meunière with almonds and candied lemons, and the real churros with a trio of sauces to share. And don’t miss the cocktails by Rémy Savage, especially Le Présidente.

Le Bar des Prés - is run by the famous chef Cyril Lignac. They serve up Franco-Japanese delights like brilliant sushi with salmon, and tuna along with California rolls packed with flavor. Don't miss sharing the Chutoro mi-cuit. For drinks, try their house creations like the Tokyo Garden or the refreshing Paloma Popy made with mezcal and infused with thyme.

Le Bonaparte - is situated in one of the most picturesque squares in Saint Germain. Great for an easy lunch and people-watching.

Brasserie Lipp - every local will tell you it is super legit and very Parisian. It's been a Saint Germainian culinary benchmark for over 135 years! Since 1880, this brasserie has been a hangout for literary and political legends like Gide, Malraux, Proust, and Sartre. A menu full of traditional, dishes: oysters, burgundy snails, tartars, pork but if you want something light try roasted tuna stake. For dessert creme caramel or classic baba au rhum.

La Palette - a historic gem. Once the haunt of Cézanne, Picasso, and Braque during their Beaux-Arts days, this bar later welcomed legends like Ernest Hemingway, Jim Morrison, and Harrison Ford. Today, La Palette is the ultimate place to see and be seen. Whether you go for breakfast or lunch, you'll love their great menu formulas. Open year-round for brunches, serves a super simple menu brimming with classics like caviar, sardines, and Quiche Tradition. But for me, it's all about soaking up the historic vibe and enjoying a drink. My picks here are an espresso martini or a glass of Sancerre.

Rue De Seine

A heavy small gallery and art shop block, wander the small streets off of Seine and be inspired by the bookshops, classic art - real, lithographs and prints to take home, and favorite Parisian designers, like Carven.

The House of Serge Gainsbourg

From the Beaux-Arts, take rue Jacob and then turn right onto rue des Saints-Pères. On your left, at 5 bis rue de Verneuil, you'll see a house with a colorful graffiti facade—it’s Serge Gainsbourg's home. This 135 m² mansion has remained unchanged since his death, both inside and out. Fans often visit to leave their marks of admiration on the wall, and you're likely to leave humming one of his tunes. ©Alexis Raimbault

Mezzanine - a small but beautiful handmade pottery shop, with gingham linens, towels, and lampshades. If you have a place in France, they have excellent larger furniture items. Take home plates or candle holders if your suitcase has room.

Teo Leo - great selection of well-curated antiques. From mirrors to lamps. Just off Rue du Bac.

Buly 1803 - this is one of those charming specialty stores where the packaging alone makes you want to buy something. If you're looking to treat yourself in Paris, this is the perfect address. They offer everything from lotions and fragrances to delightful little curiosities. It's also a great place to find gifts for friends and family back home. As a lovely personal touch, they'll hand-write the recipient's name in calligraphy and attach it to the gift.

Astier de Villante - a classic, but for a reason. The white handmade ceramic pieces never fail as gifts or additions to your home. Their weight is lighter and easier to transport. Opt for a serving plate or the stunning mugs, you’ll have them forever.

Marin Montagut - my favorite charming and magical store on Rue Madame featuring creations by Marin Montagut. Here you'll find glassware and tableware, all adorned with Montagut's signature designs. Even if you aren't familiar with the artist, this store is a must-visit for all its curiosities. His latest affair is tarot cards. Don't miss it!

Grands Voyageurs - this place is a perfect mix of old-world European charm, and modern design, thanks to Milanese architect Fabrizio Casiraghi. Every room is like a little adventure, packed with art that tells the story of a well-traveled life. Regular DJ nights, cozy Sunday brunches, and lively Thursday piano karaoke sessions.

Relais Christine - a beloved hotel for artists, Parisian lovers, and anyone seeking a family home atmosphere with luxury hotel service. Decorator Laura Gonzalez has masterfully updated its timeless charm. This serene Parisian residence features a Guerlain spa, offering exclusive treatments under 13th-century ceilings, blending artisanal craftsmanship with modern technology. ©Relais Christine

L'Hôtel - nestled in the heart of the Left Bank and is perfect for experiencing Paris's art and culture. 20 unique, luxurious rooms are designed by Jacques Garcia, and finished with excellent materials. Check out our bar for amazing cocktails and live jazz every Thursday, capturing the spirit of the neighborhood. L'Hotel also features a private hammam pool, steam room, and treatment suite, included with your stay for a truly relaxing experience.

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