The Paris Olympics are upon us, igniting a frenzy of sports excitement and fostering global camaraderie. This inspiring atmosphere, like the sight of South Korea and North Korea marching together, has prompted a surge in searches for “Paris Travel,” sending “Best Paris Hotel” and “Where to stay in Paris” soaring to the top of Google searches. Paris, overflowing with unique hotels, boasts two exceptional properties from the same hotel group, offering a delightful blend of contrast and complementarity. Let’s delve into the captivating world of Hôtel Madame Rêve and TOO Hôtel.
Parisian Luxury: A Dream Come True at Hôtel Madame Rêve
Hôtel Madame Rêve, nestled in the heart of Paris, breathes new life into the iconic Louvre Post Office. It’s a hidden gem of discreet luxury, camouflaged from the bustling streets of Paris’s 1st arrondissement. The small entrance, tucked behind an imposing stone façade, sets the stage for a grand surprise. It’s a deliberate nod to 19th-century mansions, preparing guests for the breathtaking lobby, café, and restaurant, each imbued with the spirit of the 19th century. Opulent common spaces, draped in luxurious fabrics, adorned with gilded walls, and featuring sumptuous seating, beckon guests to linger over afternoon wines or cocktails, savor delectable small bites, and possibly even extend their indulgent day into a delicious dinner. Ascend to the rooftop and be transported to modern-day Paris. A lush haven of exotic potted plants, it boasts unparalleled panoramic views of the city. Taïeb, the hotel’s visionary founder, envisioned a space offering Parisians and locals multiple opportunities for “living,” and he has undoubtedly succeeded.
Laurent Taïeb, a French entrepreneur, masterminded this gem, adding it to his growing hospitality group, which owns acclaimed restaurants like Kong and Le Trésor, and the striking “Tours Duo”‘ skyscrapers in the 13th arrondissement. The Louvre Post Office, a Haussmanian marvel built in 1888, served as the canvas for Taïeb’s inspiration. He reveals, “I sought to tell this story by drawing on unparalleled French craftsmanship. From the ground floor, the language of volumes needed to express itself to rediscover the creative spirit of glassmaker Emilie Gallé and cabinetmaker Louis Majorelle. I also felt compelled to express my fascination with the Viennese Secession, drawing inspiration from Josef Hoffmann for creating the chandeliers… Thus, was born the idea of the grand café with its 8-meter-high ceilings – truly reminiscent of the grandeur of historic places.”
Madame Rêve’s outdoor spaces are a testament to Parisian elegance. The sprawling 10,000-square-foot rooftop and restaurant offer breathtaking panoramas of the city’s skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Lush greenery, comfortable seating, and a lively ambiance fueled by exceptional cocktails and a French-focused wine list make it the perfect escape from the city’s vibrant energy.
Modern Minimalism: A Sky-High Experience at TOO Hôtel
Across town, TOO Hôtel presents a striking contrast to Madame Rêve, yet is equally captivating and deserving of a place on your itinerary. But first, a word of caution: the allure of TOO Hôtel lies not in its location, but in the hotel itself. Its sky-high rooms, designed by the legendary Philippe Starck, offer million-euro views of Paris at surprisingly affordable rates.
Opened in October 2022, TOO hotel‘s design is a complete departure from the fashionable, velvet-swaddled Rêve, a bold shift in scope, scale, materials, and vision. A collaborative effort between Taïeb and the iconic Philippe Starck, the property occupies several floors within two glass skyscrapers designed by Jean Nouvel. From the raw concrete lobby to the reception of the bamboo keycard by staff in their utilitarian uniforms, the materials and moments set the stage for this ultra-modern interplay between land and sky. The effort culminates in the TOO TacTac SkyBar and the 27th-floor TOO Panoramic restaurant.
Despite its location, a 25-30 minute car ride from downtown, the TOO TacTac Skybar has not only been discovered but requires reservations for its epic terrace floating above the city. Secure a table before sunset to witness the solar ball drop behind the Eiffel Tower every night. Excellent cocktails, a French wine list, and small bites with Asian influences create a memorable evening for couples and groups of friends.
The 13th Arrondissement: A New Paris Emerges
The TOO Hôtel finds its home in the developing 13th arrondissement. While its proximity to the train tracks, the National Library, the international business district, and a few modern big-box shops might not immediately conjure up images of a classic Parisian streetscape, a leisurely stroll along the river reveals a festive waterfront scene. The area is teeming with bars and restaurants, each with a distinct outdoor vibe, from the food and music to the décor and slingback lounge chairs. Frequented by locals rather than tourists, it offers a truly authentic immersion into a hyper-local scene that feels like the new Paris.
Rooms are modern, spacious, and minimalist, a signature of Starck’s design. However, floor-to-ceiling views of the city beyond provide all the visual stimulation you’ll need. Imagine that famous timelapse video of Shibuya Crossing, except the Parisian train version below your feet. Even the wall-to-wall glass bathrooms offer views from the standalone soaking tubs. Wake up in a fluffy white bed with the Eiffel Tower in the distance, a setting straight out of a movie scout’s dream. Rooms offer three stunning perspectives: The Eiffel Tower, Downtown Paris, and the Seine River. Room sizes range from Classic, Superior, and Executive to Deluxe Terrace and Junior Suites, depending on your chosen view.
Culinary Delights: Parisian Classics and Asian Fusion
The TOO TacTac Skybar is the perfect prelude to an evening of dining in the panoramic restaurant on the 27th floor. Every table offers a breathtaking view through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The Panoramic restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The expansive room features high ceilings and a whimsical décor of abstract and absurdist modern artworks of proportional size, creating the effect of a giant’s dining room. Asian-fusion dishes are exquisite but come at a premium. Highlights include a starter of salmon tataki, followed by crab hotpot with sake bisque or jumbo tiger prawns as a main.
Both hotels offer a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Madame Rêve boasts a first-floor wellness center and spa featuring a sauna and fitness room. The gym is equipped with bikes, treadmills, ellipticals, yoga mats, weights, and other equipment. The spa, while small, offers a peaceful escape for a scrub or massage, so booking ahead is recommended. TOO Hôtel features a small gym, a terrace hot tub, and a spa.
Choosing Your Parisian Retreat: Madame Rêve or TOO Hôtel?
If your style leans toward elegance and you prefer a walkable downtown location, Madame Rêve is your perfect match. If you are budget-conscious and appreciate modern design, TOO Hotel is the ideal choice. But if you have the luxury of four nights, why not indulge in the best of both worlds by splitting your time between these two extraordinary properties?
