Christina Sfez shares her favorite locations in Paris
Parisian by birth, Christina Sfez has lived in the City of Light for almost 20 years. An experience that inevitably left traces and an innate sense of French style. Today she enjoys the peaceful rhythm of California. The bridal designer delights at each of her Parisian stops to find her bearings, discover new places, recall a sweet memory at the bend of a street, and savor the energy of the capital. From good shopping locations, magical places, institutions to rediscover, and secrets of fashion fans, here are the best Parisian locations gathered (and tested) by Christina Sfez. Notice to future brides: you will not run out of good plans. Follow her guide!
The Paris of Christina Sfez
Your favorite place for a stay in Paris?
Christina Sfez : “My family lives in Paris, so I haven't had the opportunity to stay at a hotel in the capital. When I visited them, I really liked the Hôtel des Grands Boulevards (17 Blvd Poissonnière, 75002) and the Hôtel Rochechouart (55 Blvd Marguerite de Rochechouart, 75009) for it’s views of Paris. Perfect for a romantic getaway… if my husband reads me!
For a stay around Paris in the green, I had the opportunity to stay at the Barn Hotel (Le Moulin de Brétigny, 78830 Bonnelles), It is fantastic and rejuvenating with lots of activities for all ages.
Your fashion shopping destinations?
When I am passing through Paris, I like walking around the Marais and the Etienne Marcel district. I always stop at Sessùn, Bellerose, A.P.C, Soeur, and Merci for my wardrobe.
For Joseph and Margaux, we go to Bonton (5 Bd des Filles du Calvaire, 75003) où on en profite aussi pour leur couper les cheveux.
Where do you go to find second-hand items?
The Saint-Ouen shops for inspiration and Emmaüs. However, I do admit that I prefer to find second-hand items outside of Paris through garage sales organized in the villages, particularly in the Luberon. The selection is not pre-sorted and we have the pleasure of searching for THE one!
An address to advise future brides?
A visit to Adeline Affre (36 Rue Réaumur, 75003) and Monsieur Paris (53 Rue Charlot, 1 Rue Perrée, 75003) to select her jewelry.
“ Go for a drink at any small parisian bistro ”
Your favorite restaurants?
Bouillon Chartier (7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009) for its atmosphere. This is my favorite restaurant for dinner when I'm in Paris.
Ober Mamma (107 Bd Richard-Lenoir, 75011)
Jaja (3 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004)
Café Compagnon (22-26 Rue Léopold Bellan, 75002) , which has recently opened. From the food to the atmosphere everything is perfect!
Places to have a drink?
Moncoeur Belleville (1 Rue des Envierges, 75020) with its guinguette-style tables and breathtaking view of Paris.
La Buvette - Chez Lui (67 Rue Saint-Maur, 75011)
To party?
It's been a long time since I “partied” in Paris! Maybe I should consider getting back into it... But going for a drink in any little Parisian bistro is just as festive for me!
Places to find home decor?
More focused on the art of the table, La Trésorerie (11 Rue du Château d'Eau, 75010) is a place where I could literally buy everything! Chez Merci (111 Bd Beaumarchais, 75003) for decorations in general. Take in and soak up the atmosphere, not to mention a small café on the terrace.
One or more must-see cultural places/museums?
The Orsay Museum is the museum that moves me the most in Paris, as well as walking along the quays towards the Pont-Neuf.
A kid-friendly place according to you?
I don't go specifically to kid-friendly places, but I love taking them to museums like the Center Pompidou, the Cité des Sciences in La Villette, and to the movie theater. We love it and Paris is ideal for these cultural outings!
“In particular, I have a fascination with Paris at night.”
Something you only find in Paris?
The showrooms, textile, and trimmings stores that I love!
Something you can't find in Paris?
I was talking about this earlier, second-hand shopping. I find it more difficult to find second-hand items in Paris; almost everything has already been preselected and you don't have that impression of finding THE perfect item. Unlike when you walk a garage sale in the center of a village.
The prettiest landscape in Paris for you?
As a child, I spent my weekends at the top of the Belvédère in the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. When I have the opportunity I like to hike to the top to see all of Paris.
In particular, I have a fascination with Paris at night en particulier. There are many incredible buildings and lights inside of the apartments and I still find it magical today.
Something you love in Paris?
Getting lost in the streets, strolling, and discovering new places…
And one that you like less?
Public transportation. How convenient! I loved them when I was younger but they oppress me now, probably because I have lived in more airy cities for many years.
“ The Parisienne is naturally elegant.”
What is your emotional connection to Paris?
Very strong, it was all my childhood up until I was 20 years old. My parents still live in the same house. At the moment, I don't see myself living there anymore, especially with my two young children. I may go back when they go to graduate school, but who knows ...
Your Proust madeleine when you come to Paris?
Dreyfus Déballage au Marché St Pierre (2 Rue Charles Nodier, 75018), where I have spent so much time.
During the holidays I like to nibble a hot chestnut cone on the steps of the Opéra Garnier.
Your fondest Parisian memory?
So hard to choose! I lived there for 20 years and there are too many.
For you the Parisian is ...
naturally elegant.
Now that I am often abroad, it is obvious every time I visit Paris. The Parisienne has that je ne sais quoi without going overboard.
Californians have also pointed out to me this is the Parisienne's way of combining pieces.
