Paris: five sunny patios away from the crowds
There's nothing like springtime in Paris. For Parisians and tourists alike, it's the ideal time of year to spend leisurely afternoons on the terraces of the local cafés. If people-watching is your goal, you'll have no trouble finding a patio next to the sidewalk on a busy street. But if you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, here are five cafés to keep in mind for their peaceful patios.
8 Iéna
The Shangri-La Hotel recently re-opened its patio, which may be accessed from the Avenue d'Iéna (hence the name). Visitors can savor the cuisine of Christophe Moret, who has composed a gourmet menu featuring salads, vegetarian offerings and small dishes for satisfying between-meal cravings. The 8 Iéna will be open through mid-September from noon to 10:30pm.
10 Avenue d'Iéna, Paris, 16th arrondissement
Le Playtime
This floating bar and restaurant, which reopened for the warm season on April 30, is docked in a prime location on the Quai d'Austerlitz. On the 140m2 patio (1500 square feet), guests can enjoy a view over the Seine while reclining in cozy armchairs. The upper deck features a restaurant and a small swimming pool, and there is even a cocktail bar below deck. Foodies will flock to the boat this summer to savor the cuisine of Franck Baranger, the chef who is also at the helm of such trendy restaurants as Caillebotte and Pantruche.
34 Quai d'Austerlitz, Paris, 13th arrondissement
L'Hôtel du Collectionneur
For those who doubt the existence of peaceful sanctuaries within Paris, a visit to this luxury hotel's "Andalusian patio" is bound to change your mind. One of the largest open-air terraces in Paris, the venue invites visitors to savor cocktails amid cypresses, palm trees and rose bushes.
51-57 Rue de Courcelles, Paris, 8th arrondissement
Ma Cocotte
If your visit to Paris includes a trip to the famous flea market at Saint-Ouen, be sure to make time for a post-shopping break at this restaurant and café. Aside from the pleasant second-story patio, visitors will appreciate the trendy interior decor and the tasty fare.
106 Rue des Rosiers, Saint-Ouen
Farago
Tucked away on the end of a small side street, this little cafe is truly a hidden gem, with a sidewalk terrace that is far from the noise of automobile traffic. Guests can sit down to wine, cocktails and plates of pintxos -- the tapas-like hors d'oeuvres popular in the Basque country of northern Spain.
11 Cour des Petites Ecuries, Paris, 10th arrondissement
