© Vincent Nageotte – Thibaud Georges – Stéphane Aït Ouarab
What if we kick off 2026 in style ? From family-friendly light shows and an exceptional afternoon tea in a luxury palace to a spectacular exhibition or a chic dinner in a newly revamped Parisian institution, boredom is simply not an option this winter.
Feast at Prunier
The oldest caviar restaurant in the world, Prunier is a true Parisian icon on Place de l’Étoile, listed as a Historic Monument and formerly owned by Pierre Bergé. Recently taken over by Benjamin Patou—king of Parisian nightlife (ex-Moma) and now head of Lapérouse Holding alongside Antoine Arnault—the legendary seafood institution has been given a fresh new lease on life. After a major revamp, the space now features black-and-white celebrity photos, plush carpeting and a friendly, relaxed service aimed at introducing a new generation of Parisians to this marine institution with huge potential. With its cosy Art Deco atmosphere, luxurious details, continuous service every day, private dining rooms and discreet bar, Prunier ticks all the boxes of an elegant Paris that never truly sleeps.
Perched on high stools at the counter—the perfect spot for a romantic tête-à-tête—or seated at beautifully dressed tables, order a silky Pop Star cocktail (Eminente 3-year rum, popcorn, passion fruit, lemon, €22) or a classic glass of champagne. Among chef Romain Fornell’s must-tries: Jondal-style caviar toasts (€58), oysters prepared à la minute with citrus ponzu and trout roe (€6.80), the legendary Prunier potato with classic Oscietra caviar—best shared (€95), unforgettable fine spaghetti with langoustines and tarragon (€45), or sea bream fillets with beurre blanc (€36). Rare for such upscale addresses, desserts are equally impressive, with top-tier ice-cream sundaes like caramel-peanut or coffee liégeois (€15), or Sicilian pistachio with homemade chocolate sabayon (€18).
Prunier, 16 avenue Victor Hugo, Paris 16th. Open daily from 12pm to 2am.
Admire Haute Couture Masterpieces
When the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation brings together the finest pieces from two of the most influential fashion designers of their time, there’s only one thing to do: head straight to this exhibition just steps from Hôtel de Ville. Azzedine Alaïa and Christian Dior: Two Masters of Haute Couture brings together nearly 70 designs by the couturier of 30 Avenue Montaigne and the man who was once his intern.
Accentuated waists, sculptural cuts, rounded hips and dramatic volumes stand majestically beneath the foundation’s stunning glass roof. On the racks, a host of Dior archive pieces from the 1950s—collected over many years by Alaïa himself—sit alongside Alaïa’s own creations, echoing his mentor’s work. Despite their distinct identities, both designers share a love for black and grey tones, turning these sublime dresses into truly timeless pieces.
Our Alaïa favourites we dream of slipping into one day? The white cotton voile strapless dress trimmed with lace at the bodice, and the long lacquered lace gown with kimono-style sleeves. Bonus: the designer’s studio on the first floor, offering a fascinating glimpse into his visionary world.
Fondation Azzedine Alaïa, 18 rue de la Verrerie, Paris 4th. Until May 24. Tickets from €3 to €10.
Sit Down for a Royal Tea Time
Wherever he goes, Maxence Barbot never fails to delight. Now freshly installed at Le Bristol Paris, the pastry chef unveils his new tea time—already in high demand and requiring advance booking. Head to the iconic Café Antonia and its elegant décor for a truly French afternoon tea celebrating indulgence and precision.
The experience begins with two irresistible savoury bites by palace chef Arnaud Faye: a soft brioche filled with lobster, lemon mayonnaise, watercress coulis and fresh herbs, followed by a salmon pastrami finger with trout roe and lime cream cheese. Next comes a citrus-driven pre-dessert bridging savoury and sweet, before delicate pastries such as a pear charlotte scented with minty shiso and a couture take on the Saint-Honoré—one of the Bristol’s signatures.
Hotel baker Corentin Molina teams up with Maxence Barbot to create an outstanding apple turnover and a beautifully plump Parisian brioche.
Our drink of choice? The hot chocolate, served in a teapot with a small pot of cream to melt in at will. Absolute heaven.
The Bristol Paris , 112 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris 8th. €95 per person. Reservation required.
Also discover: the best festive restaurants in Paris and the city’s top raclette and fondue spots.
