Are you craving stunning skyline views after a day of Parisian shopping? La Samaritaine department store might tempt you, but there’s an even better option, literally right next door! Le Tout-Paris, a chic rooftop bar perched atop the Cheval Blanc hotel, promises breathtaking panoramas of the City of Lights.
Think Eiffel Tower, Pont Neuf, Notre Dame Cathedral, and even the Tour Montparnasse in the distance. From Le Tout-Paris, you’ll experience a panoramic vista of the entire left bank of Paris – a sight that’s truly unforgettable.
Beyond the Views: A Parisian Experience at Le Tout-Paris
While Le Tout-Paris isn’t technically part of La Samaritaine, it shares the same ownership and is just a stone’s throw away. This stylish bar and brasserie, located on the 7th floor of the Cheval Blanc hotel, features a beautiful terrace that offers incredible views whether you’re inside or out.
Even if you’re not a guest of the hotel, you can still enjoy the ambiance and the mesmerizing views. Le Tout-Paris warmly welcomes non-hotel guests, allowing you to savor a glass of wine or a cocktail while taking in the magnificent cityscape.
During my visit, I found myself seated at the elegant marble horseshoe-shaped bar, enjoying glasses of rosé wine with complimentary cashews and green olives. The wine, priced at €30, was a delightful indulgence, made even more special by the breathtaking views. It’s not every day you get to experience such luxury and beauty!
The Story Behind Le Tout-Paris: A Chic Parisian Legacy
The name Le Tout-Paris translates to “everyone in Paris.” It’s a phrase that originated during the Belle Époque, a period of immense societal change and flourishing in Paris. This era saw the rise of La Samaritaine itself, a landmark department store that embraced the artistic and cultural trends of the time.
Le Tout-Paris embodies the spirit of that era, drawing inspiration from the sophisticated Parisian lifestyle. The bar’s chic atmosphere and impeccable service are a testament to its ambition – to attract those who are “in the know,” including you and me!
Cheval Blanc: A Parisian Luxury Experience
The Cheval Blanc hotel, home to Le Tout-Paris, is a luxurious jewel in the Parisian landscape. This five-star establishment boasts accommodations that start at €1550 ($2000) per night, catering to discerning travelers who seek the best of the best.
Cheval Blanc is part of the LVMH Moët-Hennessy Louis Vuitton Group, a global powerhouse in luxury goods. This prestigious group also owns other exclusive Cheval Blanc properties, including those in St. Tropez, St. Barth, the Maldives, and Courchevel.
La Samaritaine: A Historic Parisian Department Store
The connection between La Samaritaine and Cheval Blanc goes deeper than simply being in the same complex. La Samaritaine, a department store with a rich history, was originally established by Ernest Cognacq and his wife, Marie-Louise Jaÿ in 1870.
Over time, the store expanded, and the Cognacqs commissioned renowned art nouveau architects Frantz Jourdain and Henri Sauvage to redesign the original store, known as “Magasin 1.” The renovation was completed in 1910, just as the art nouveau style was at its peak, capturing the essence of the Belle Époque.
La Samaritaine thrived for decades, but eventually, safety concerns forced its closure in 2005. For over 16 years, the historic building stood vacant, its future uncertain.
In a turning point, LVMH acquired the property and embarked on a massive renovation project, investing a staggering €750 million. This ambitious endeavor brought the iconic store back to life, restoring its original art nouveau splendor.
In June 2021, La Samaritaine reopened its doors, revealing a breathtaking space adorned with stunning architectural details. The glass roof bathes the interior in natural light, while a mural of gold-hued peacocks adorns the top level.
A Note on Rooftop Bars: Choosing the Right View
While La Samaritaine does offer bars and restaurants on the 5th floor, they lack the panoramic Parisian views that Le Tout-Paris provides. The rooftop area is enclosed by glass, offering glimpses of the store’s interior but not the city itself.
If you’re craving unobstructed views, Le Tout-Paris is the definitive choice. It’s a Parisian rooftop bar experience that is truly unforgettable.
It’s worth noting that other popular rooftop bars, like the one at the Pompidou Centre, called Georges, while aesthetically pleasing, offer partially obstructed views. The steel frames of the iconic museum building interfere with the panoramic experience. While Georges offers a unique Parisian ambiance and is a popular spot to visit after exploring the museum, it’s not the ideal choice for breathtaking city vistas.
Your Paris Rooftop Experience Awaits
So, when you’re planning your Parisian adventure, make sure to add Le Tout-Paris to your list. It’s a rooftop bar that truly captures the spirit of Paris: chic, sophisticated, and breathtakingly beautiful.
