The Paris You Don’t Know

Beloved boutique V.O.D. has been bringing French-girl style to Dallas over the last 10 years and was the first to carry lines like Isabel Marant and Vanessa Bruno. In honor of the store’s 10th anniversary celebration this month (held in Paris, of course), we asked co-owner Jackie Bolin for her Top 10 haunts in the city she calls her second home.  

1). Legrand Filles et Fils — Beautiful wine bar and shop (one of the oldest in Paris) to buy and taste the best wines and champagnes.

2). Chez Janou — Delicious provincial French food in a loud, low-key atmosphere. Chocolate mousse is a MUST.

3). Chez Mademoiselle — Sweet local spot for a classic French dinner.

4). Nanashi — Favorite lunch spot, Asian/French fusion, all organic, and delicious.

5). Hotel Les Bains — Iconic nightclub in the Marais, reborn into a hotel, bar and restaurant. Fun place to grab a drink.

6). Andy Wahloo Bar — Tiny, red jewel box of a bar. Best after dinner in one of the adjoining hot spots – Café 404 for chic Moroccan, Derriere for modern French.

7). ILE SAINT LOUIS — The tiny island floating in the middle of the Seine is the former home of Kings and current home of Berthillon ice cream. A stroll here is definitely worth it – cute shops and some of the best ice cream in the world.

8). Café de Flore — Cliché, but if you want to experience old school Paris and some of the best people watching, a bottle – not a glass – of Champagne here is a must. Plus, it’s surrounded by some great shopping.

9). Picasso Museum — Recently reopened; this beautiful spot is perfect for quick inspiration and not as overwhelming as other museums.

10). Hotel Shangri-La — For a truly romantic and luxurious Paris stay, this palatial hotel is a favorite as it’s off the beaten path of other luxury hotels. Eiffel Tower views with a beautiful bar and restaurant.