The excitement of the Paris Olympics has ignited a surge in travel bookings, with searches for “Paris Travel” hitting record highs. Amidst the city’s plethora of hotel options, two properties stand out as unique offerings from the same hospitality group: Hôtel Madame Rêve and TOO Hôtel. Let’s explore the charms of each.
Hôtel Madame Rêve: Where Parisian Elegance Meets Modern Luxury
Nestled in the heart of Paris, Hôtel Madame Rêve has breathed new life into the iconic Louvre Post Office. This boutique luxury property is a discreet gem, hidden from the bustling streets of the 1st arrondissement. Its unassuming entrance, a small door in an imposing stone facade, evokes a 19th-century mansion. Stepping inside, guests are transported to a captivating world of 19th-century grandeur—a grand lobby-café-restaurant that’s both stylish and inviting. Rich fabrics, gilded walls, and plush seating create an ambiance of refined elegance, beckoning guests to linger over a glass of wine, cocktails, or a delicious meal. As the sun sets, the rooftop terrace offers a contemporary Parisian experience. Adorned with exotic potted plants, it provides unparalleled views of the city. Laurent Taïeb, the hotel’s founder, aims to create multiple spaces for “living,” and he has certainly achieved his goal.
A Glimpse into the Hotel’s Inspiration: History and Art
The hotel’s design draws inspiration from French history and art. Taïeb shares his vision: “I wanted to tell this story by drawing on unparalleled French know-how. From the ground floor, it was necessary to express the language of volumes to rediscover the creative breath of glassmaker Emilie Gallé and cabinetmaker Louis Majorelle. I also wanted to express my fascination with the Viennese Secession by drawing inspiration from Josef Hoffmann for creating the chandeliers… Thus, was born the idea of the grand café with its 8-meter-high ceilings – that are truly reminiscent of the grandeur of historic places.”
Madame Rêve’s Enchanting Ambiance: Rooftop Views and Culinary Delights
Madame Rêve boasts some of Paris’s most impressive outdoor spaces. The 10,000-square-foot rooftop and restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower taking center stage. Surrounded by lush greenery and comfortable seating, the rooftop provides a vibrant ambiance, perfect for enjoying delicious cocktails and an extensive French wine list. It’s the ideal escape from the bustling city below.
A Hotel for Discerning Travelers: Luxury and Comfort
Located near Les Halles in the heart of Paris, Madame Rêve caters to sophisticated travelers. The hotel features a stunning glass roof spanning two levels and 82 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, including 43 with terraces or balconies. Rooms range in size from 300 to 861 square feet. Even the smallest feel cozy and inviting thanks to the original slanted windows, warm wood accents, leather detailing, and an earthy color scheme that evokes mid-century design.
A Culinary Journey: Michelin-Starred Cuisine and a Franco-Japanese Fusion
Madame Rêve offers two exceptional dining experiences. On the ground floor, Kitchen by Stéphanie Le Quellec boasts an art deco-inspired setting and features the culinary expertise of one of Paris’s most celebrated chefs. For a truly memorable experience, book a table at her Michelin-starred restaurant, La Scène. The train-inspired design adds a unique touch to this elegant dining room. While the cuisine at La Scène is distinct from Kitchen, both offer well-executed classic French dishes. The second restaurant, La Plûme, delivers a unique blend of French and Japanese flavors in a seductive and dimly lit dining room.
Beyond the Dining: Wellness and Relaxation
Madame Rêve also features a first-floor wellness center and spa for guests seeking rejuvenation. The sauna and fitness room provide the perfect spot to unwind. The gym is equipped with bikes, treadmills, ellipticals, yoga mats, weights, and other equipment. The spa offers private treatment rooms for massages and scrubs. Be sure to book in advance to secure your treatment.
TOO Hôtel: Where Modern Design Meets Breathtaking Views
Across the city, TOO Hôtel stands in stark contrast to Madame Rêve, offering an equally exciting and memorable experience. The key to TOO Hôtel lies not in its location, but in the hotel itself. Sky-high rooms designed by Philippe Starck provide sublime million-euro views of Paris at remarkably affordable rates.
A Fusion of Design and Vision: A Collaboration Between Taïeb and Starck
Opened in October 2022, TOO Hôtel represents a complete departure from Madame Rêve in terms of design, scale, materials, and vision. A collaboration between Taïeb and the legendary Philippe Starck, the hotel occupies several floors of two glass skyscrapers designed by Jean Nouvel. From the raw concrete lobby to the bamboo keycards and the staff’s utilitarian uniforms, materials and moments set the tone for this ultra-modern interplay between land and sky. The culmination of this vision is the TOO TacTac SkyBar and the 27th-floor TOO Panoramic restaurant.
An Unforgettable Skybar Experience: Breathtaking Views and Asian-Inspired Delights
TOO TacTac SkyBar is a must-visit, despite its location 25-30 minutes by car from downtown. Its epic terrace, floating above the city, is in high demand and requires reservations. Arrive before sunset to witness the spectacular spectacle of the sun setting behind the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy delicious cocktails, a curated French wine list, and small bites with Asian influences for a truly memorable evening.
A Unique Parisian Neighborhood: The Vibrant 13th Arrondissement
TOO Hôtel is located in the developing 13th arrondissement, a neighborhood that offers a unique Parisian experience. While it may not have the traditional Parisian streetscape, the riverfront scene is a haven of festive energy. The area is filled with bars and restaurants, each with its own distinct outdoor vibe, from the food and music to the décor and lounge chairs. It’s a neighborhood frequented by locals more than tourists, offering an authentic Parisian experience.
Rooms with a View: Modern Design and Unforgettable Cityscapes
TOO Hôtel rooms are characterized by modern, spacious, and minimalist design, a hallmark of Starck’s signature style. However, the floor-to-ceiling views of the city beyond provide all the visual inspiration you’ll need. Imagine the famous timelapse video of Shibuya Crossing, but with the Parisian train network below your feet. Even the bathrooms feature wall-to-wall glass, offering views from the standalone soaking tubs. Wake up to a fluffy white bed with the Eiffel Tower in the distance, a setting that seems straight out of a movie. Rooms offer three breathtaking views: The Eiffel Tower, Downtown Paris, and the Seine River. Depending on your preferred view, room sizes range from Classic, Superior, and Executive to Deluxe Terrace and Junior Suites.
Dinner with a View: Panoramic Restaurant and Asian-Fusion Delights
TOO TacTac SkyBar provides the perfect prelude to an evening of dining at the 27th-floor Panoramic restaurant. Every table offers floor-to-ceiling views of the city, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a spacious setting with high ceilings and whimsical décor. The modern art pieces add an element of whimsy and grandeur, creating the effect of a giant’s dining room. The Asian-fusion dishes are exquisite, albeit pricey. Don’t miss the salmon tataki as a starter, followed by crab hotpot with sake bisque or jumbo tiger prawns for a memorable main course.
Wellness and Relaxation: Hot Tub, Gym, and Spa
TOO Hôtel offers a range of amenities for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. There’s a small gym, a terrace hot tub, and a spa.
The Perfect Hotel Choice: Madame Rêve vs. TOO Hôtel
Madame Rêve is the ideal choice for travelers who appreciate classic Parisian elegance and a walkable downtown location. TOO Hôtel appeals to those seeking modern design, budget-friendly rates, and breathtaking city views. If you have the luxury of four nights, consider splitting your time between the two hotels for a unique and comprehensive Parisian experience.
