The Must Hit List

Truth be told, the favorites list is my least favorite to write. For the simple fact that discussing all the wonderful pleasures of travel and Paris in particular make me want to hightail it to O'Hare. But for the good of all Parisian bound travelers and those who wish they were, I'll soldier on and give you the Gordon's Perfect Paris Picks. Pierce is nearly able to write his own guidebook. In no particular order :) I could go on for days, so this is a highly 'edited' list.

l'Agrume

15, Rue des Fosses Saint-Marcel

I had the pleasure of dining here with a group of 'fodorites' and it was a wonderful experience on every level. The chef is a definite 'rising star' with an impressive pedigree prior to opening his own restaurant. The five course degustation menu was sublime, service was exceedingly friendly and efficient and the overall atmosphere quaint, yet modern.

Etoile Manquante

34, rue Vieille du Temple

As it goes in Paris, it is always cheaper to take your drink (beer or otherwise) at the bar. Most bars don't have stools, they are more apt for the drink and run expresso crowd. But this establishment, in the heart of the Marais actually has stools. Mitch and I spent many an afternoon while Pierce napped sampling the beer selection. The manager is a delight and he scored major points with me when he asked me in French where I was from in Paris and how did I meet my English husband. So yes, flattery will get you everywhere, well at least into your bar. If the weather is warm enough, snag a table outside and watch the wonderful world of the Marais trek past you. It's also a great sport to watch the cars avoid near miss accidents as this spot is at the center of a T intersection.

Le Moulin de Rosa

32, Rue de Turenne

This bakery is the best in all of Paris and just happens to be across the street from the apt. we stay at. Honestly though, the bread is spectacular and the pastries divine. It is a tiny spot and always crowded so it's a one in, one out policy as only about 6 people can be in there at any given time. Sandwiches are excellent as well. You'd be greatly satisfied grabbing a bite to eat and bringing it benchside at Place des Vosges.

Marches des Enfant Rouge

39, Rue de Bretagne

This market should be renamed 'it's a small world'.

A veritable around the world sampling from meditteraen, moroccan, chinese, italian and everything in between awaits you. Stall by stall discover whatever floats your boat, order it up and enjoy lunch across the street in Temple Square Park. Of course, we have a special place for our Gallette and Sandwhich maker guy who offers up the best of both in all of Paris. Beware he's not there everyday and seems to switch up his days off now and again, but he always lists his times on a chalkboard in his stall.

Activities

I'll refrain from the obvious sights of Paris. Since we are fans of slow travel. In other words, an itinerary is always shunned and wandering is mandatory, I'll highlight some of the places we love to watch the world go by.

Special shout out to the temporary YSL Exhibit at Petit Palais

If you find yourself in Paris between now and August 29th, do not miss the Yves Saint Laurent exhibit at the Petit Palais. If you are even remotely interested in fashion, this is an absolute must do. It was the highlight for me this trip and our only museum visit. Be forewarned, buy tickets in advance or you will be out of luck. The Petit Palais in and of itself is a beautiful building and their permanent collections are interesting as well.

Stroll next to the House Boats

One of our most wonderful walks was a 3 mile or so trek alongside the Seine (down below the upper boulevard) The road has a sidewalk most of the way and the views under the bridges offers a unique perspective. Also, checking out the house boats docked alongside the river opens the door on an interesting subculture. We spotted a cool propeller car along the way one day.

Jogging along the Seine on Sundays

Run, bike or roll every Sunday along the Seine. The road is cleared of cars and it's an open stretch for miles. Be sure to hit this early. It closes to cars at 9 a.m. and seeing Paris in the 'early' morning light along the river is amazing.

Like I said I could go on forever, but now it's back to reality. Feel free to email us for additional recommendations, or solicit ideas via posting. We have a million and one recommendations for toddler travel in Paris.