10) Le Bristol – Paris
Named in honor of Bishop Frederick Hervey, 4th Earl of Bristol, an 18th-century adventurer renowned for his appreciation of luxury, this iconic establishment on rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré debuted in 1925, swiftly becoming a favored meeting place for the cultural elite of Paris. Notable figures such as Coco Chanel, Pablo Picasso, Piet Mondrian, and Salvador Dali frequented the venue. Serving as the American Embassy during World War II, the hotel regained its stylish reputation in the 1950s. Its proximity to the inaugural Pierre Cardin boutique and the world of haute couture made it a hub for fashion designers and photographers, with bartenders crafting cocktails around the clock. Acquired by the Oetker Group in 1978, Le Bristol maintained its commitment to serving its dedicated clientele throughout a discreet six-year renovation, concluding in 2018.
Accommodations at Le Bristol are adored by both fashion icons and royalty alike. The 190 rooms and suites, located in the main building and Matignon wing, range from the regal Superior to the expansive 2,000-square-foot Paris Suite. Pastel walls provide a backdrop to Louis XV- and Louis XVI-era furniture, silk drapes, and antique mirrors. Marble bathrooms boast generous showers and tubs, stocked with exclusive toiletries. Despite the opulent setting, the hotel prides itself on cultivating a familial, home-like atmosphere—although the prospect of having multi-Michelin-starred chef Eric Frechon prepare a private meal in one’s own kitchen is likely a delightful stretch of the imagination.
Dining at Le Bristol is a gastronomic delight. The establishment hosts the three-Michelin-starred fine-dining restaurant, Epicure, with its sophisticated dining room overlooking the hotel’s flower-filled courtyard. Brasserie 114 Faubourg offers elevated bistro fare, while the more casual Café Antonia, renowned for its teatime pastries, adds a relaxed touch to the culinary experience. Chef Eric Frechon, a mainstay in these kitchens for over two decades, oversees the entire gastronomic offering. His seven-course tasting menu, featuring a range from foie gras to blue lobster, promises to be a highlight of any stay.
