Situated behind the Hotel de Crillon, another gem in the Parisian crown, this one made even more famous as the hotel featured in the finale of “Sex and the City”, you will find a tall wrought iron gate. Whether it’s meant to keep out party crashers or rather attempt to confine the party inside, this is the looking glass you step through.
Once inside, a giant two story sleeping Buddha greets you, a paradigm of calm in the middle of a writhing, rollicking room of worldly revelers. Candles flicker, brass dragons dance on the walls, the entire place is a chic Chinese New Year parade meets a moonlit rave in
The safari is best conducted from one of the many alcoves and small seating areas on the mezzanine/bar level where you can enjoy table service table and, yes, they serve Asian cuisine that is adequate but far beneath what you’d find at a brasserie around the corner. The food isn’t why you’re here. The scene, the décor, the energy, the potential to see Naomi Campbell pelting someone with a martini…THAT is why you’re here. Eat before you arrive. But if you need a drink to take the edge off and didn’t have the juice to secure a table, be prepared for a bit of a battle. The bar itself is not that large, usually very crowded and the walk to it is rather treacherous, especially for those perched in high heels, as you’re forced up and down and over a few uneven surfaces.
As the night wears on, the exuberance of the room grows; the music intensifying as the beautiful crowd enjoys pricey cocktails. All too soon you find yourself back in the Parisian night having bid the Buddha a fond farewell. If you can’t bear the thought of leaving, you can buy a bit of the bar; CD’s and surprisingly fashionable t-shirts are on sale as you exit. Who says you can’t take it with you?
8, Rue Boissy d'Anglas
75008
+33 1 53 05 90 00
www.buddha-bar.com
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