As a lover of all things Parisian, I can’t help but be captivated by the experiences shared by these talented individuals. From the cobbled streets to the iconic bistros, it seems that Paris continues to enchant and inspire its inhabitants, just as it does us mere observers.
Enthusiasts of “Emily in Paris” might appreciate its bubbly narratives, captivating romance, and extravagant fashion, but it’s the radiant beauty of Paris that truly shines. As the second half of the show’s fourth season, featuring Lily Collins, premieres on Sept 12, “The Hollywood Reporter” sought advice from some favorite cast members and the director about their preferred spots in the City of Love (and a few suggestions for Rome, where an upcoming storyline unfolds in the Netflix series).
According to series director and executive producer Andrew Fleming, it seems like a good idea to launch a website or application that helps people determine their travel destinations, dining options, and accommodation.
Over the course of four seasons working on the show, Fleming has become quite familiar with the city. Now, he’s ready to start another venture – “With so much of my time spent guiding people to great places to dine, I’ve even had French tourists ask for my recommendations.
One of his favorite restaurants to visit regularly is La Coupole. “It’s well-known and can be a bit touristy, but both locals and tourists dine there,” he points out. “Their oysters are fantastic, the steak tartare is superb, they offer excellent fish and chips, and the size of the restaurant means that tables aren’t cramped together.
Fleming frequently visits the secluded Chinese eatery, Aux Mandarins de Belleville, located in the 19th district. “It’s not particularly glamorous with its fluorescent lighting,” he notes, “but the food is exceptional and there are no tourists to be found.” He dines there often and has yet to find a disappointing dish on the menu.
Fleming’s preferred top-notch dining establishments globally is the esteemed Guy Savoy, nestled in the prestigious district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a location often used for filming. He describes it as not being budget-friendly – it’s a place for memorable occasions that requires prior reservation, but compared to other gastronomic restaurants in Paris, it offers a cozier atmosphere. Although it exudes elegance and refinement, it avoids unnecessary complexity or pretentiousness. One standout dish is the artichoke soup with truffles and a truffled brioche toast – despite its sophisticated sounding name, it tastes like something your talented home cook mother might prepare. Moreover, they generously incorporate truffles in this dish. Another delightful aspect is when they present a dessert cart laden with approximately 27 different sweet treats for you to savor as many as you wish. Fleming adores Guy Savoy; he believes the initial planning and cost are justified.
One of Fleming’s favorite Sunday outings in this neighborhood is spending an afternoon at La Grande Épicerie de Paris, a grocery store where food shopping becomes an exciting event. “It’s an incredible food store that has everything you could ever imagine. It’s glamorous and exotic yet functional, being a fully operational market,” he explains. “It’s also a fantastic place for people-watching, and you’ll see many locals. I simply adore that place.” Another beloved shop is E. Dehillerin. This nearly 200-year-old cookware emporium, with a low tourist crowd, was frequented by Julia Child and is also essential for television chef and author Ina Garten. “I enjoy cooking, and visiting feels like going to church for me,” he concludes.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés, famed for its iconic literary cafe Café de Flore and fondly remembered by French actor Bruno Gouery who portrays Luc, Emily’s colleague at the made-up luxury marketing firm Grateau, is a cherished locale.
Gouery expresses his affection for this location, stating, “It’s a delight to stroll here without needing a car, and there are countless stunning spots to explore.” He continues, “Places like Les Deux Magots and Brasserie Lipp are certainly noteworthy, being iconic Parisian eateries.” Arnold echoes his sentiments, adding, “If you truly wish to uncover hidden treasures, take a leisurely walk by yourself, and you’ll find places that hold a unique charm for you.
Additionally, Goery mentioned his preferred boutique hotels in the area. Conveniently located near filming locations, two esteemed 5-star hotels that are well-liked by the city’s elite, offer privacy and sophistication for high-ranking industry figures. The sleek and discreet Esprit Saint Germain (priced at $425 per night) exudes an air of sophisticated elegance. Nestled on a tranquil street, just steps away from bustling bistros, it boasts guest rooms with private terraces offering stunning views of the Saint Sulpice Church and a cozy living room and library lounge where a traditional Parisian breakfast, wine, and cordials are provided. Just a few blocks away, Relais Christine (priced at $525 per night) is a refurbished private mansion that offers Spa Guerlain services, a luxurious boudoir-style lounge, and opulent two-story suites with views of the tree-lined, cobbled courtyard.
As a Paris enthusiast myself, I must express my gratitude to my on-screen partner, Ashley Park (playing Mindy), for guiding me to Loulou. This restaurant has swiftly become my favorite dining spot in the City of Light. Tucked away in the lush Tuileries Garden and attached to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, part of the Palais du Louvre, it’s a gem specializing in mouthwatering Italian cuisine. The outdoor seating offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, making it an unforgettable dining experience. As I shared with THR, “It’s a fantastic place where you can dine alfresco and enjoy some truly delicious food.
Samuel Arnold, who portrays the character of Julien, no longer consumes meat, but his fond memories of the Shiso Burger are still extraordinarily vivid. “You must visit the place,” he recommends. “It offers Japanese fusion burgers, and when I ate meat, that was my favorite spot.
In the fourth season, Emily is set to journey from Paris to Rome, which means we’re in store for more surprises and exquisite culinary landscapes. Fleming has already marked several favorite spots, one of them being Hostaria da Pietro, an Italian eatery that left a lasting impression on him. According to him, their carbonara and steak are the best he’s ever tasted in his lifetime.
It’s unclear if Arnold and Gouery will bring their characters into the Eternal City this season. However, Arnold did share some insights about the local food in Rome. He told THR, “No matter where you dine in Rome, you’ll be amazed. Even a casual restaurant will offer an exceptional meal.
Follow along with THR‘s Emily in Paris season four coverage.
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2024-09-10 23:55