Ready to experience Paris from a new angle? After a shopping spree at the iconic La Samaritaine department store, why not elevate your Parisian adventure to new heights? But hold your horses, dear reader! While you might think you’re headed for a rooftop oasis within the store, the true gem lies just across the courtyard, within the Cheval Blanc hotel – a luxurious haven owned by the same visionary group.
Le Tout-Paris, a rooftop bar that lives up to its name, promises to captivate your senses with breathtaking panoramas of the City of Lights. Imagine sipping on a glass of crisp rosé wine, gazing at the majestic Eiffel Tower, the charming Pont Neuf, and the timeless Notre Dame Cathedral. The enchanting views encompass the entire left bank of Paris, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for your Parisian escapade.
A Taste of Parisian Elegance
Nestled on the seventh floor of the Cheval Blanc hotel, Le Tout-Paris embodies Parisian elegance. Whether you choose to relax inside the sophisticated bar or take a seat on the terrace, you’ll be transported to a world of refined luxury. The terrace, open to the elements when the weather permits, offers a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor bliss.
Don’t let the exclusivity intimidate you! While hotel guests might have preferred access to the terrace, everyone is welcome to enjoy the bar’s enchanting atmosphere. The warmly lit interiors create a cozy ambiance that’s perfect for a romantic evening or a celebratory drink with friends.
My personal experience at Le Tout-Paris involved sinking into a luxurious horseshoe-shaped marble bar, savoring a delightful glass of rosé wine, and indulging in complimentary cashews and green olives. The cost of the wine, 30€, might seem steep, but the unforgettable views and the luxurious setting made it a truly worthwhile splurge.
A Glimpse into Parisian History
The name “Le Tout-Paris” evokes the spirit of Parisian high society, dating back to the Belle Époque. This era, characterized by artistic flourish and social gatherings, saw the birth of the original La Samaritaine store. “Le Tout-Paris” then, as now, referred to the elite who graced the city’s most fashionable venues, just as today’s celebrities grace Paris Fashion Week or the Cannes Film Festival.
Cheval Blanc, a fitting name for a hotel that exudes an air of sophistication, perfectly embodies the essence of “Le Tout-Paris.” This is not just a rooftop bar; it’s an experience, a chance to step into a world of Parisian glamour and refinement.
From Art Nouveau Glory to Modern Marvel
The story of La Samaritaine is interwoven with the Parisian fabric. Founded in 1870 by the visionary Ernest Cognacq and his wife, Marie-Louise Jaÿ, this department store evolved into a symbol of Parisian style and elegance.
The couple commissioned renowned Art Nouveau architects, Frantz Jourdain and Henri Sauvage, to create a masterpiece – Magasin 1. This architectural marvel, completed in 1910, showcased the exquisite beauty of the Art Nouveau movement, which flourished during the Belle Époque.
Time, however, took its toll on La Samaritaine. Sadly, the store closed its doors in 2005 due to safety concerns and the ravages of time. For 16 long years, this Parisian landmark stood dormant, a testament to a glorious past.
Then, a new chapter began. The LVMH Moët-Hennessy Louis Vuitton Group, recognizing the historical significance of La Samaritaine, stepped in as new stewards of this Parisian treasure. After a monumental restoration project that spanned several years, the iconic department store reopened its doors to the public on June 23, 2021.
A Legacy Reborn
La Samaritaine, once again, stands as a beacon of Parisian allure, its original architectural splendor restored to its former glory. The enormous glass roof, a signature element, casts a soft, ethereal light upon the multi-level staircase that spirals towards the heavens.
The atrium, perched on the top level, boasts a mural of gold-hued peacocks, a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of the artisans who painstakingly restored this historical gem. These heritage structures, now listed on the Supplementary Inventory of Historic Monuments, speak volumes about the lasting legacy of La Samaritaine.
The rebirth of La Samaritaine extended beyond the store itself. On September 7, 2021, the Cheval Blanc Paris hotel opened its doors, a testament to the seamless integration of history and modernity.
While the hotel might share the same complex as La Samaritaine, it’s Le Tout-Paris, perched atop the Cheval Blanc, that offers the most spectacular views of the Parisian skyline.
An Unforgettable Rooftop Experience
La Samaritaine, with its bars and restaurants on the fifth floor, might offer glimpses of the city’s charm, but the views from Le Tout-Paris are simply unparalleled. While La Samaritaine’s rooftop is enclosed in glass, allowing for natural light to flood in, the views from Voyage restaurant, for example, focus on the store’s interior, not the city’s exterior. A video screen, a clever substitute for the real thing, attempts to conjure up the “might-be” view for those dining inside.
For the real Parisian experience, head to Cheval Blanc, a five-star haven of luxury where accommodations start at a princely 1550 € (approximately $2000). Cheval Blanc, a name synonymous with luxury, is part of the LVMH Moët-Hennessy Louis Vuitton Group, a powerhouse of luxury brands, with properties in locations as diverse as St. Tropez, St. Barth, the Maldives, and Courchevel.
Beyond the Glamorous Rooftop
While Le Tout-Paris offers a truly unforgettable experience, it’s not the only rooftop bar in Paris. The Pompidou Centre’s rooftop terrace, Georges, is another contender for panoramic views of the city. Often featured in movies, this bar boasts a modern, ultra-chic interior. However, the outside terrace, while popular, suffers from partially obstructed views due to the presence of steel frames.
While the wines at Georges are less expensive (1 glass of Sauvignon Blanc was 12€), the views, in my opinion, are not as impressive as those from Le Tout-Paris. The best views, arguably, are to be found not on the terrace but on the walkway at the top of the museum, outside Georges.
If you’re seeking the perfect Parisian rooftop experience, Le Tout-Paris is the place to be. With its unobstructed views, luxurious ambiance, and exquisite service, it’s a rooftop bar that will leave you wanting more. So, grab a glass of wine, raise a toast to the City of Lights, and prepare to be mesmerized by the magic of Paris from above.
