France is one of the most exciting countries in the world where visitors can enjoy the finest touristic and cultural activities. Mythic Restaurants and Parisian cafes. The sites proposed here may not be the most luxurious, but they are genuine French institutions thanks to their history and architecture and above all, for the atmosphere and the memories they cherish.
These are spaces marked by the presence of great artists and intellectuals such as Paul Verlaine, Apollinaire, Joan Miró, Chagall, Ernest Hemingway and Scott Fitzgerald, among other illustrious personages who undoubtedly have become part of the world’s historical and cultural heritage.
Restaurant Bar La Closerie des Lilas
171 Boulevard Montparnasse, Paris
This beautiful and elegant restaurant, located in the posh area of Montparnasse, has a deserved reputation for its bohemian ambiance, used by various artists and intellectuals of the 20th century to hold lively encounters. With over 100 years of history, it is an icon of Parisian nightlife frequented by artists like Pablo Picasso, Oscar Wilde, Henry Miller and Jean Paul Sartre, among others. In the 21st century, La Closerie has become a late night bar frequented by celebrities from the worlds of theater, film, television and politics, who gather around the piano to enjoy traditional and modern French songs. It’s chic and very Parisian terrace offers a delightful and unique atmosphere.
Café de la Table Ronde
7 Place Saint André, Grenoble
Located in the Place Saint-André in the historic city of Grenoble, opposite the former palace of the Dolphin and the 16th century Parliament, this landmark café with a spacious terrace was opened in 1739 and still maintains its genuine French character. You can enjoy the best traditional Savoyard cuisine and fine wines in a space full of antiques and memorabilia. The writer Stendhal was born just two blocks from the café, and Leon Blum and Sarah Bernhardt were regular guests.
La Colombe d’Or
Place du Général De Gaulle, Saint-Paul de Vence
In Provence there is a treasure: La Colombe d’Or, a restaurant/bar with a terrace that opened its doors in 1920 and later became an inn with three rooms. The cozy atmosphere, alongside the excellent service offered by its owner attracted many artists. Its walls are covered with paintings, which were often a form of payment for a stay or a few meals. Its tables and rooms have been visited by multiple celebrities, such as the painter Georges Braque and the poet Jean Cocteau. The place was witness to the love between a very young Yves Montand and Simone Signoret. Many artists have wanted to leave their mark here and its art collection has grown through the years. The latest work installed is a large ceramic piece created by Irish artist Sean Scully. Today, La Colombe d’Or is a place of pilgrimage for those who worship the 20th century avant-garde. ■
