Two Neighborhoods, Two Cities

Text: Beatriz Bernabé
CATEGORIES: Europe, International, Places

MAPS  ALEJANDRA ACOSTA

Le Marais, París

Metro: Saint Paul

This quintessentially Parisian neighborhood is one of the city’s trendiest areas, thanks to three key ingredients: historic buildings (including Victor Hugo’s house); the latest fashion trends from young designers; and a wide selection of restaurants. It is also the city’s Jewish quarter, so it’s easy to find Kosher food, synagogues and specialized bookstores. Culture and style come together in Le Marais, an area that is bursting with energy. Recently, the even more sophisticated and exclusive sector of Haut Marais – also known as North Marais or NoMa – has begun to take the lead in this neighborhood.

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Where to eat

Le Marais is home to many bistros, cafés, restaurants and bakeries, but the family restaurant Robert et Louise is a stand-out. Located in an 18th-century building, this charming establishment is famous for meat cooked on the open flame of the fireplace.

What to See

Visitors will find a multitude of art galleries of varying sizes and styles in Le Marais, including the famous (and highly recommended) Picasso museum. Our favorite is the unique Musée de la Poupée. Opened in 1994, this doll museum even has a hospital for damaged poppets.

Where to shop

The list of stores with locations in Le Marais is endless: from Noir Kennedy (for younger fashionistas) to the elegant shoes of Pring to Eple & Melk, showcasing fashion with a Nordic flair. You’ll also find the romantic Lollipops store, the original Kulte location and four floors of men’s fashion at BHV. For colorful, fun attire, don’t miss Antoine et Lili.

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rionemonti.net

Rione Monti, Rome

Where to eat

Cafés appear as if by magic on every corner of Rione Monti. One of the most popular is Bottega del Caffè, which is located on one of Rome’s most beautiful squares and serves panini, salads, pasta and delicious desserts. The traditional décor of round tables and mirrors invites you to come in and relax with a good book any time of day. For a more filling meal, we recommend a typically Roman eatery called La Carbonara. Oddly, its name comes not from the famous Italian dish but from its first chef, who began working there in 1906 (she was the wife of a coal miner).

Bottega del Caffè

La Carbonara

Where to Shop

Artisans play a starring role in Rione Monti. They have taken over the neighborhood with the objective of setting themselves apart from other businesses and chain stores, promoting a culture of fine craftsmanship and customer service. They want to prove that Italian fashion isn’t just about the big brands, and they’re making great headway. The hundreds of workshops scattered throughout this neighborhood include Le Gallinelle/Abito, run by the mother-daughter team Wilma and Carlotta, who are responsible for the Le Gallinelle line. Spending a weekend in Rome? Try to catch Mercato Monti. Held one Sunday each month, this traveling bazaar presents a unique opportunity to experience the true spirit of Rione Monti. A list of upcoming dates and venues is available on the Website.

Mercato Monti