The latest cultural enclave to pop up in NYC is “Little Paris,” and though it’s not officially official yet (they still have to submit a petition to Community Board 2 to have it renamed), it is growing in popularity. The effort was originally initiated by Léa and Marianne Perret, founders of Coucou French Classes, but now has garnered support from other local business owners as well. There are even hand-painted signs adorning the street!
Though the main part of the neighborhood is highlighted as Centre Street between Broome & Grand St., there are many more French businesses just a stone’s throw away.
Here are our recs of where to visit so you can fully embrace that Parisian lifestyle while still in New York!
Food
- Maman (239 Centre St.): This French bakery and restaurant has many locations throughout NYC, and their gorgeous SoHo spot is right in the heart of “Little Paris.” This was also their first location! There’s outdoor seating on the street so you can admire the historic Euro-inspired buildings in the neighborhood, or walk to the back of the shop to their outdoor garden space. We love their almond croissants and chocolate chip cookies.
- French Cheese Board (56 Spring St.): This cheese shop is much more than a cheese shop — besides selling tons of delicious imported cheeses and accoutrements like artisan jams, honey and crackers, they also host art events and exhibits, and even a “culture lab” with cooking classes, cheese pairing demonstrations and more.
Wine
3. Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels (249 Centre St.): What would Little Paris be without somewhere to sip on a glass of wine in the evening? That’s where Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels comes in, with both cozy indoor and spacious outdoor seating. Enjoy a wide variety by the bottle and the glass (including whites, red, rose, sparkling, orange and even non-alcoholic options), plus a simple but mouthwatering menu featuring salads, pastas, tartare and cheesecake.
Shops
4. Diptyque (31 Prince St.): You’ve probably heard of Diptyque for their candles beloved by bloggers and lifestyle gurus, and this might be the perfect opportunity to treat yourself and bring those smells of Paris home. If anything you can just enjoy window-shopping (and smelling!).
5. Clic (255 Centre St.): This is another shop to find inspiration or just wander for some wonderfully aesthetically-pleasing items. Find everything from art to beautiful coffee table books to home items to clothes and accessories, all carefully curated by French tastemaker Christiane Celle.
6. Ba&sh (257 Elizabeth St.): This luxury Parisian clothing brand will help you master that coveted French-girl style right here in NYC. Find everything from striped sweaters to printed skirts to party dresses.
You can now even pick up your own guide to the “Little Paris” neighborhood at the shops featured above — stay up to date on the Little Paris Instagram account! You can also read more details about the surprising history of the “Little Paris” area in NYC here.