Expert Advice: A Day in the Marais - Remodelista
Photography by Alexa Hotz. When Alexa headed to Paris, she realized that much of what she wanted to see was centered in the third and fourth arrondissements. Remodelista: Best way to begin a day in the Marais?Alexa Hotz: Start with Rose Bakery’s green tea cake or the pistachio one and a good coffee. RM: Where to explore first?AH: Walk through Le Marché Aux Enfants Rouge, a covered market full of fruit stands, traiteurs, and places for cheap eats. Then head over to Christophe Lemaire‘s for a look at the clothing (he designs for Hermés). RM: Next?AH: For an absolutely only-in-France experience, visit the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (Museum of Hunting and Nature), which was recommended to me by a few trusted friends. RM: Lunch spot?AH: Head straight to the cult favorite bento spot, Nanashi, on Rue Charlot. Chef Kaori Endo, formerly of Rose Bakery, cooks up bento boxes with mixed quinoa and pickled vegetables–top it with a juice of the day and you’ve got the right antidote to all those pastries. RM: Where to next?AH: Near Square du Temple park you’ll find The Broken Arm, where you can order a post-lunch coffee from the cafe and sift through the adjoining boutique with its mix of clothing and goods for the home. RM: Any other shops to see?AH: Le Petit Atelier is a must. AH: And of course you have to head to Merci to see what’s new and stock up on linens and household brushes, then have a look at Bonton, the retail emporium for children nearby. RM: Other places to visit?AH: The Atelier Brancusi is a must-see and is free of charge (but it closes at 6pm). RM: Favorite place for dinner in the neighborhood?AH: Get a Breton-style glass of cider and buckwheat críªpe at Breizh Cafe (thanks to Heidi Swanson for this recommendation).