neighbourhood guide:
2nd Arrondissement
The smallest arrondissement in Paris, ‘le deuxième’ is a food-lover’s paradise. If the neighbouring first arrondissement is synonymous with grand squares and even grander museums, then the second is where you want to end up at the end of the day, ravenous and thirsty having visited them all. Look out for the beautiful 18th century arcades that run through the area. Many of them conceal some of the finest restaurants in town.
Restaurants
CAFFÈ STERN // alajmo.it
Situated in the historic Passage des Panoramas this Philippe Stark decorated restaurant serves food from the Veneto. Opt for the fixed price menu, sit back in glorious surroundings and enjoy the exquisite culinary ride.
FRENCHIE // frenchie-restaurant.com
You’ll never get a table in the evening so try lunchtime instead. Open on Thursday and Friday for le déjeuner, Frenchie is a bit of a legend about these parts. And should the reservations policy get the better of you, try Frenchie To Go next door for a sandwich and frites on the hoof.
FELIX // yohjiyamamoto.co.jp
Teeny tiny with a no-reservations policy and slightly haphazard service, Yamamoto is a culinary delight. Architects and graphic designers from nearby studios flock here at lunchtime. You may have to be patient but it is worth the wait.
KLAY // klaysaintsauveur.fr
Only in France would your local gym also have an excellent restaurant. So it is with Klay on the rue Saint Sauveur where you will have to choose between lunch, a swim or a yoga class. Such is life in the Second Arrondissement.
The Pantry
FRENCHIE CAVISTE // frenchie-caviste.com
The wine store of famed restaurant Frenchie is small but with a perfectly formed cellar. Try some of the lesser known Rhône whites or a champagne from a house you have never heard of.
LE COMPTOIR DE LA GASTRONOMIE // comptoirdelagastronomie.com
Salmon eggs, snails and foie gras are just a few of the must-buy delights on offer in this local stalwart. The service is of the excessively grumpy variety and whatever you do don’t try to pay with a card unless you have filled your basket to the brim. Endure, for the truffled taramasalata alone is worth it.
Our 2nd arrondissement favourites

