Did you ever read The Secret Garden? We remember dreaming of moving to our own sprawling manor and restoring the garden to its awe-inspiring splendor.
La Fantaisie is the fantastical, city-centered interpretation of this childhood fantasy. Opening out onto Rue Cadet––named for 16th-century gardeners and brothers Jacques and Jean––La Fantaisie builds upon the market street’s storied history by providing a hospitality experience hinging entirely on nature’s bounty.
As his first step into the Parisian hotel scene with Leitmotiv Hotel Group, renowned Swedish designer Martin Brudnizki brings the outdoors inside. Relying on the color palette of the French landscape––warm yellows, soft greens, pops of coral, and blue as light as the sky––each of the 63 rooms and 10 suites is enveloped in comfort and warmth reminiscent of a sunny spring day. Floral wallpaper, richly upholstered seats, lavish headboards, whimsical artwork, and plush carpeting kindle a sense of intentional relaxation.
Depending on room type, lucky guests may have the privilege of facing La Fantaisie’s own secret garden. Others will look out over the Faubourg-Montmartre neighborhood within the 9th arrondissement, which is progressing as the epicenter of Paris’ creative community. Upon check-in, the concierge provides a comprehensive pocket guide to the area’s best boulangeries, bistros, shops, attractions, and beyond. Everything listed can easily be uncovered on foot via ancient avenues and unexpected passageways lined with magnificent architecture.
Bons vivants need not venture far to find great food and spirits. All three of the hotel’s concepts operate under the culinary expertise of Chef Dominique Crenn. Since the 1980s, Chef Crenn has honed her craft in the States, transforming Californian gastronomy and ultimately being the first (and only) female chef awarded three Michelin Stars in America. The move to La Fantaisie marks her long-anticipated homecoming.
Diners are invited to unearth the link between food and nature at the flagship restaurant, Golden Poppy. Inventive dishes enjoyed beneath the glass roof––connecting the dining room to its exteriors––are sure to entice. Situated at the hotel’s entrance, Le Café is a more casual rendition of Golden Poppy, open early until late with seating along the bustling street. Observe cocktail hour at Bar sur le Toit, the sophisticated rooftop bar and terrace set against the backdrop of Sacré-Cœur.
Those in search of further respite from the city surrounds can indulge in a visit to the spa. In keeping with La Fantaisie’s aesthetic, each space calls to nature through the use of expert tiling that evokes verdant fields of flowers. Guests should purify and rejuvenate within the sauna, hammam, hot and cold baths, mineral water pool, and jacuzzi. Then, try one of the tailor-made treatments developed by the spa’s exclusive partner and naturally vegan French brand, Holidermie.
Allow La Fantaisie to tend to you during your next trip to the City of Lights.
Top Takeaways
Location: Paris, France (Faubourg-Montmartre neighborhood)
Address: 24 Rue Cadet, 75009 Paris, France
Rating: Four-Star
The vibe: With its fantastical and playful décor, inventive dining concepts, and restorative spa, La Fantaisie is a tranquil haven within one of Paris’ buzziest neighborhoods.
Food + Drink: There are 3 distinct concepts to discover: Le Café offers refreshing dishes from breakfast to dinner; Golden Poppy by Chef Dominique Creen serves Californian cuisine; and Bar sur le Toit crafts cocktails within a floral-themed setting.
Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, sauna, baths, hammam, two restaurants, bar
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: La Fantaisie’s centerpiece courtyard garden provides a hidden, verdant oasis in the heart of Paris’ villagey 9th arrondissement.
5 nearby attractions: Porte Saint-Denis, Musée de la Vie Romantique, Galerie Vivienne, Louvre Museum, Tuileries Gardens
Any personal neighborhood recs? Upon check-in, the concierge provides all guests with a booklet filled with tried-and-true neighborhood recommendations, ranging from bakeries to boutiques. Do not miss Mamiche––just a short walk away, it’s one of the best boulangeries in the city; their Chocolate Babka is one of the best we’ve ever had.
Rooms: The hotel offers 63 guest rooms and 10 suites.
Pricing: Rates start at approximately $608/night.
Closest Airport: Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport and Paris-Orly Airport
