Bastille, Oberkampf

A gorgeous Parisian neighborhood encompassed by some of the best restaurants dear to my heart. Walking around the 11th you feel this warmth of being a true Parisian relaxed and embracing the surroundings. It is filled with locals, fashionistas, and foodies. Also known for the city’s best neo bistros. Gorgeous boutiques, markets, and dining scene between the République, Oberkampf, and Nation Squares and home to the Opéra Bastille. Unfortunately, the least favorite part about the 11th is the noise as it is a 24/7 destination. To me, the 11th has a Brooklyn vibe to it, a young vibe.

A little history…On July 14th, 1789, Parisians began the French Revolution here at the Bastille which today is the Opéra Bastille not to be confused with the older, elegant Palais Garnier in the 9th.

TO SEE/BOUTIQUES

* MUSÉE EDITH PILAF – 5 rue Crespin du Gast, 75011 – One of Paris’ tiniest and most unique museums. Tucked away in the Ménilmontant neighborhood where Edith frequented where you will find a collection of her personal moments. Reservations are a must.
* RUE DE CHARONNE – this is a historic 17th-century road that linked Charonne to Paris before the village was annexed in 1860. So much history worth knowing prior to visiting.  It is also a street where Parisians shop in boutiques such as Cotélac, Sessùn and little shops filled with antiques.
* TOMBE JIM MORRISON
* SAINT-AMBROISE – A Roman Catholic church built in 1863 and was consecrated by cardinal Léon-Adolphe Amette in 1910. The eclectic style church was designed by architect Théodore Ballu with a beautiful sculpture
garden at the entrance.
* CIRQUE D’HIVER – the history is amazing, please take time to read the attachment as the story of this structure dates back to 1851 with lots of historical Circus performances. Today it is a venue for musical concerts, Fashion shows and Turkish wrestling.
* COUR DAMOYE – such a beautiful pedestrian cobblestone street in Paris filled with cafés, boutiques and galleries.
* Rue de la Roquette – wonderful clothing boutiques like 58 rue de la roquette, Comptoir du Désert, Mademoiselle Jeanne & non et Laur

CAFÉS, BARS & RESTAURANTS

* ALAIN DUCASSE – artisanal chocolaté including an ice cream bar “La Glace”
*HOTEL FABRIC –  A Former Textile Factory now a place of arts during the day and at night bustling with bars and cabarets. Here you will find the Popincourt food market flea market Place d’Ailgre and Boulevar Vol/taire.
* CLOWN BAR – interior dates back to the 1920s with stained glass adorned with clowns and circus scenes is quite quirky and beautiful.  The menu is heavy on traditional meat-forward dishes and delicious vegetable sides.
* LE DAUPHIN – This is the sister restaurant to Le Chateaubriand next door. Le Dauphin has a more casual vibe, small plates and affordable wine list.
* LE SERVAN PARIS – this has become one of go-to restaurants when I am in Paris for dinner. Founded by two sisters who have created a very sweet Asian-inspired a la carte menu that evolves daily. Simple decor, warm environment, and beautiful food. A MUST!!!
* LE SAINT SEBASTIEN – a retro vibe exterior of this restaurant does not give way to what is inside. Artful, creative dishes with an amazing wine list which is one of the main attractions to this restaurant.
* DREAMIN MAN – 140 Rue Amelot, 75011 – closed Sunday – A Japanese barista that serves sumptuous homemade cakes as well as a great café.
* LE TEMPS AU TEMPS – 13 rue Paul Bert, – 33 1 43 79 63 40 Family style
neighborhood restaurant known for their sea bass and asparagus soup. Quaint and quiet chic restaurant with homey decor.
* MARCHE BASTILLE –  The Bastille market on famous Blvd. Richard Lenoir is filled with locals Thursday-Sunday 7-3PM.  Famous for their galettes totally brings you to feeling like you are Brittany.
* GLUTEN FREE – Chambelland – The world changed when you find yourself in Paris surrounded by savory gluten-free bakeries.  Chambelland offers amazing GF pastries and now offers a wonderful space for lunch tea, etc.
* FRENCH BASTARDS – A must visit! and I have to say the best croissant in Paris so far. AIMER 🗼