As a small independent homeware shop in Bristol, we’re always looking for inspiration, and for excuses to visit cool places and tick spots off our ever-growing ‘to visit’ list. Over the years, Anna has travelled to Paris not just for buying trips, but also for family holidays, and through those visits she’s discovered some of the city’s best spots that are definitely worth seeking out.
From cafés and restaurants to markets and galleries, here are some of our favourite places to stop in Paris.
Where to Stay in Paris: Our Favourite Hotels & Neighbourhoods
If you’re wondering where to stay in Paris, the city offers everything from boutique design hotels to charming apartment stays in historic neighbourhoods. Over the years, we’ve discovered that choosing the right arrondissement makes all the difference. Especially if you want to be close to independent shops, markets and great cafés (like us).
Locke Hotel – 5th Arrondissement
Located near the Jardin des Plantes, Kitty and I tried out one of the newer Locke hotels to arrive in Paris, based in the 5th arrondissement.
The interiors are modern yet warm, with that signature Locke design feel, thoughtful details, calming tones and beautifully styled communal spaces. And honestly, it smells incredible (which somehow always makes a stay feel even more luxurious).
It’s a great base if you want to explore the Left Bank, with everything within easy walking distance.
2nd Arrondissement – Airbnb Stay
On another visit, we stayed in a lovely Airbnb in the 2nd arrondissement ..... The location was ideal, central but tucked away enough to feel peaceful.
The 2nd is perfect if you want to be close to shops, cafés and galleries, while still being within walking distance of the Seine and the Louvre. It felt like a very “live like a local” kind of stay.
Hôtel Jardin des Plantes – Cosy & Well Located
Just around the corner from Locke, the MP Team stayed at Hôtel Jardin des Plantes during a short work trip in January 2026.
The interiors are simple and welcoming, with a relaxed boutique feel. The location is excellent, close to the Panthéon and within easy reach of the Latin Quarterm - making it ideal for both sightseeing and slower mornings wandering nearby cafés.
Above images: , Below image: LOCKE Hotel
Where to get coffee in Paris
Paris is known for its café culture, but finding truly great specialty coffee can take some searching. Whether you’re exploring Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés or the 10th arrondissement, these are our favourite coffee shops in Paris for interiors, atmosphere and, most importantly, taste.
NOIR Coffee - Art Deco Interiors & Cosy Vibes
With its stunning spiral staircase and art deco-inspired flooring, NOIR Coffee Shop was the perfect cosy escape from the pouring Parisian rain. Known for its specialty coffee and minimalist aesthetic, it’s a must-visit for coffee lovers exploring the Right Bank.
33 Rue Richer, 75009 Paris
29 bis Rue Monge, 75005 Paris
Blondie - Mid-Century Aesthetic Near République
Located near Place de la République, Blondie is a sleek, design-led café in the 10th arrondissement. Expect colourful mid-century interiors, beautifully crafted pastries and some of the best flat whites in Paris.
27 Rue du Château d'Eau, 75010 Paris
Caua - A Hidden Gem in the 11th Arrondissement
Tucked away on Boulevard des Filles du Calvaire, Caua is a quieter stop perfect for slowing down between sightseeing.
10 Bd des Filles du Calvaire, 75011 Paris
top left image: Noir Coffee Shop, Top right: Blondie Coffee Shop, Bottom: CAUA
Where to Eat in Paris: From Bakeries to Late-Night Bistros
For us, the food scene is always the highlight of any trip to Paris - from beautifully crafted bakeries to traditional French bistros and modern neighbourhood restaurants. Whether you’re searching for the best croissants in Paris or a classic steak frites in a cosy corner brasserie, the city delivers. Here are some of our favourite places to eat in Paris that we think are truly worth adding to your list
images of Dalia
Serving beautifully flavoursome Eastern Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Dalia is perfect if there’s a vegetarian in your group. Expect colourful plates designed for sharing, packed with bold spices and fresh ingredients.
The interiors are soft and muted, with terracotta pink tones used throughout, creating a warm and cosy atmosphere that feels stylish without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of place you could settle into for the evening.
93 Rue Montmartre, 75002 Paris
A modern take on traditional French recipes, Bistro des Lettres offers classic dishes with a slightly contemporary edge. Located on Boulevard Saint-Germain, it’s ideal if you’re looking for an authentic Parisian dining experience in the Latin Quarter.
Think comforting, well-executed French cooking in an intimate setting, perfect for a slower, more traditional evening meal.
52 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75005 Paris
Brought to my attention by my daughter Kitty, Andia brings vibrant Latin American-inspired cuisine to the Paris dining scene. The décor is bold and colourful, with a lively atmosphere that feels distinctly modern - what we’d describe as a slightly “fancy millennial” vibe.
We mostly chose fish dishes here, including sushi, and loved the fresh flavours and beautifully presented plates. It’s a great option if you’re in the mood for something a little different from classic French fare.
Often described as a viral steak restaurant, Le Relais de l’Entrecôte keeps things wonderfully simple. There’s no menu to browse, just a perfectly dressed salad to start, followed by steak and frites with their famous secret sauce (with the option for seconds), and optional dessert to finish.
We recommend arriving around 5:30pm - about half an hour before opening - as this is an extremely popular spot and queues form quickly. If you’re looking for a classic steak-frites experience in Paris, this is a fun one to try.
Images from left to right: Bistro des Lettres (1&2), Kitty in Andia
Image above taken in Relais de l'Entrêcote in Saint Germain
The Paris Shops We Never Skip
Image above taken in Les Tresorerie
If we’re in Paris, we can’t resist setting aside some time for a little browsing. The list of shops we love and want to visit again and again is extensive.
From independent homeware stores to iconic concept boutiques, shopping in Paris is always the best. Whether you’re searching for unique interiors inspiration, thoughtful gifts or beautifully designed everyday pieces, these are the Paris shops we always make a beeline for - and inevitably end up buying from.
Our favourite shops in Paris
- Les Tresorerie - A must-visit for interiors lovers, La Trésorerie is one of the best homeware stores in Paris. Located in the 10th arrondissement, it’s known for timeless, well-crafted household pieces, from kitchenware to textiles. Everything feels considered and quietly beautiful and very much aligned with our own love of functional but thoughtful design.
- Merci - An iconic Paris concept store, Merci blends fashion, homeware, books and lifestyle pieces under one beautifully curated roof. The space itself is worth visiting for inspiration alone. If you’re exploring Le Marais and looking for the best shops in Paris for design-led finds, this is always on our list.
- Fleux - Also located in Le Marais, Fleux’ is playful, colourful and full of personality. Spread across multiple neighbouring stores, it’s packed with contemporary homeware, lighting, stationery and gifts. It’s the kind of place you pop into “just for a look” and leave with a bag.
LEft image: FLEUX, Right Image: Merci
Our Paris Shopping Wishlist
These are a few Paris boutiques we haven’t quite made it to yet but they’re firmly on our list for next time:
- Marin Montagut - Known for poetic illustrations and beautifully crafted objects inspired by Parisian life, this Left Bank store feels very aligned with our aesthetic. Location: 48 Rue Madame, 75006 Paris
L’Atelier 55
Messy Nessy
Don’t Skip the French Pharmacies
And of course, no shopping trip to Paris is complete without a stop at a French pharmacy. They’re known for some of the best skincare brands in Europe and often at slightly better prices than in the UK.
From cult French skincare to everyday essentials, it’s always worth popping in to stock up before heading home (we sure do).
Culture Spots
Left image: Musée de l'Orangerie, RIght Image: Petit Palace
Paris is amazing for parks and the JARDIN DE LUXEMBOURG is every bit as beautiful now as it has ever been. A sweet traditional pond for sailing boats and lots of striped deckchairs to enjoy an ice cream. Or you can promenade the many gravel paths. Be sure to visit nearby Cafe de Flore where Earnest Hemmingway spent his time in Paris, drinking and writing, near the stunning Saint German area.
The Jardin de Plantes near the Latin Quater is also beautiful and houses Paris's Natural History Museum (Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle) and the Museum of Evolution, both of which are brilliant if you are visiting with children. The recently restored Notre Dame is not far from here.
On a side note, skip DISNEY and head to the Jarden d'Acclimation with children who will love this stunningly beautiful Parisian theme park. The foods and beverages on offer are out of this world, the park and gardens immaculate and the rides are like something from a fairytale. It's a bit out of the city but accessible by Metro.
Galleries and Museums of course you have the world famous Louvre and the Museum d'Orsay but if you are looking for something slightly less touristy and overcrowded our favourite museums are the Musee de Orangerie which houses Monet's Waterlily Frieezes. Try to book this before you go as it sells out quickly. The Petit Palais holds a wonderful selection of art and the Grande Palais is also worth a visit - look out for changing exhibitions.
If you are a fashionista the Dior Exhibition is a wonderful selection of some of Christian Dior's most beautiful dresses as well as being full of inspiration for colours, patterns and shapes. Book in advance or queue on the day.
Skip the Souvenirs and Go to These Markets Instead
Visiting markets in Paris is always at the top of our list. While we don’t specifically stock vintage homewares in our Bristol shop, vintage design plays a huge part in inspiring our collections.
From delicate floral linens to beautifully detailed ceramics, it’s often the smallest details that spark ideas. What makes it even more special is buying souvenirs directly from local sellers and small businesses. There’s something far more personal about discovering a piece with its own story.
Over the years, we’ve visited some of the best markets in Paris, from traditional flea markets to neighbourhood brocantes. Here are a few of our favourites:
-
Place Jussieu – Sunday Brocante Market
A relaxed market in the 5th arrondissement with a lovely mix of vintage pieces and smaller curiosities. It’s a great place to browse for unique finds. -
Jardin du Luxembourg Market – 6th Arrondissement
Often filled with stalls selling antiques, prints and decorative objects, this market is perfectly placed for a wander after a stroll through the gardens. -
Place d’Aligre – 12th Arrondissement
One of the liveliest markets in Paris. The indoor food market is surrounded by brocante stalls and trinket sellers, making it a brilliant spot if you’re hunting for vintage jewellery and small collectibles. -
Place Monge – 5th Arrondissement
Held on Saturdays and Sundays, this charming neighbourhood market often includes stalls selling vintage homewares and brocante pieces alongside the regular produce market. -
Place Jussieu Monthly Brocante – 5th Arrondissement
Held on the first Sunday of every month, this flea market is ideal if you’re looking for vintage treasures - from clothing and jewellery to homewares and decorative pieces.
For us, visiting these markets is about more than just shopping. They’re a chance to discover craftsmanship, gather inspiration, and connect with the stories behind the objects we bring home.
Left Image: , Right image:
Paris Landmarks You Shouldn’t Skip
Although there are a lot of landmarks in Paris that are worth visiting, there are a few that we consider absolute “do not skip” sights, especially if you’re short on time.
If you’re planning a quick city break or weekend in Paris, focusing on a handful of iconic highlights can make your trip feel full without being overwhelming. These are the landmarks we’d prioritise every time.
If you’re not great with crowds, we recommend visiting the Eiffel Tower at night. You’re still treated to spectacular views, but the atmosphere feels calmer and if you time it right, you might even catch it twinkling on the hour. Seeing it illuminated against the night sky feels just as special (if not more so) than visiting during the day.
If you have time for just one neighbourhood wander, make it Montmartre. Perched on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, it feels almost like a little village within Paris, with winding cobbled streets, ivy-covered buildings and pockets of independent shops and cafés.
MONTMATRE and the MOULIN ROUGE area are great for stroll and a glimpse into Paris's history as a city rapidly outgrowing its space in the nineteenth century and expanding into the surrounding villages and countryside. You can wander the cobbled streets and enjoy the fell of old Paris. There is also a great view from the top of the SACRE-COER BASILICA. Be sure to go all the way to the top!
Above Image: Montmatre
From Paris to Bristol: The Inspiration Behind Our Collections
Many of our trips to Paris aren’t just for wandering and eating — they’re also where we source some of the beautiful homewares and skincare pieces you’ll find in our Bristol shop.
Paris has always been a huge source of inspiration for us, from vintage market finds to contemporary concept stores. One of our biggest buying highlights each year is attending Maison & Objet, which is where the team took a trip to this January (you might have seen on our socials).
Bringing those influences back to Bristol is one of the most exciting parts of what we do. While we don't necessarily go to buy always, the cities soft colour palettes, beautiful finishes and everyday functionality, often shape the collections we curate here in the shop.
In many ways, Paris continues to quietly influence Mon Pote, season after season.
Above Image: The Team in front of Notre Dame
Find some of our Paris Finds in store
Why "Mon Pote"?
When we first chose the name Mon Pote, we were drawn to its warmth. In French, it simply means “my friend” , a name that feels familiar and friendly. It felt approachable and welcoming, exactly how we wanted our Bristol shop to feel.
At the time, we loved the tone and the sentiment behind it. Now, years later, it feels full circle that we’re increasingly stocking French brands and sourcing pieces inspired by pieces we've seen at Markets or by design we've seen in the streets.
Paris has quietly shaped so much of the shops design and product collections, from the colour palettes we’re drawn to, to the balance between beauty and function that defines so many French interiors.
Visit Mon Pote – Independent Homewares in Bedminster, Bristol
If you’re a fan of French design or your visiting Bristol for a weekend break or and want to do some independent shopping, we’d love you to come and visit us on North Street. Make sure to explore the many independent businesses around us, one of Bristol’s most vibrant and creative high streets.
Around the corner you’ll find artisan coffee spots and neighbourhood cafés much like our favourites from Paris (without the French flair) before or after browsing - community favourites include places like Peggy's, Burra and Southville Deli.
We’ve also put together a dedicated blog post highlighting our favourite places on North Street, from unique shops to brilliant cafés and restaurants. Often described as a hidden gem of Bristol, Bedminster is one of the city’s most creative neighbourhoods, full of independent businesses and local charm.
Thank you for reading!
