TRAVEL GUIDE | CABANA TRAVEL | WORLD OF CABANA

Christophe Caillaud, President of Liaigre, shares the inside Paris of his past and present, from the architectural wonder he grew up fantasizing about to the restaurants he loves for family dinners, his go-to shops for flowers and antiques, and the cozy, beautifully designed spaces he frequents. Bookmark for your next trip to Paris.

BY CHRISTOPHE CAILLAUD | CABANA TRAVEL | 12 NOVEMBER 2026

My Favorite Restaurant: Bistrot de Paris

I enjoy having lunch or dinner at Bistrot de Paris, on the Left Bank, where I worked for many years. Housed on the ground floor of a 19th-century building, it’s a truly authentic example of a traditional Parisian brasserie, just as one imagines it. For both its classic cuisine and its atmosphere, I appreciate its relaxed, 'feel-at-home' quality.

I also love the brasseries, Closerie des Lilas and La Coupole, two Parisian institutions, where I meet once a year with my two brothers to share an enormous platter of seafood. 

My Favorite Café or Coffee Shop: Bar Basile

I don't go to cafés very often, but there's one where I spent quite a bit of time when I was younger: Bar Basile. It's the café where Political sciences' students gather to relax and spend hours debating. It's also where our former President, Jacques Chirac, and his future wife, Bernadette, first met... It's a true institution, which has remained authentic.

My Favorite Cozy Pub or Bar: La Maison Cravan

La Maison Cravan on Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Prés occupies an entire building dating back to the 17th century, renovated in the spirit of a Dadaist collage, where each floor has its own unique atmosphere. The cocktail and spirits menu is incredible. It's perfect for a relaxing break in a cozy atmosphere. 

My Favorite Place to Stay: Hôtel Costes

Being a Parisian, I visit many hotels but usually don't stay in them. Two years ago, I had the chance to be invited by Jean-Louis Costes to stay two nights at the Hôtel Costes in one of the suites we have designed. I could really experience from the inside the art de vivre that Liaigre tries to convey. Comfort, refinement and a certain simplicity; I loved it.

My Favorite Museum or Gallery: The Museum Jacquemart André

The Museum Jacquemart André, Boulevard Haussmann in the 8th. Formerly the hôtel particulier of a couple of art collectors, built at the end of the 19th century with an exceptional programming (Tintoret, Botticelli). I enjoy this home-setting feeling with small rooms which offers a close and intimate access to the artworks. 

My Favorite Shop: Moulié

This florist has been around since the 1870s. Its magnificent camellias out front and its location on the charming, well-preserved Place du Palais Bourbon are simply enchanting. The flowers come from their own family-run nursery and are of the highest quality. Their arrangements are a sure bet for Parisian elegance, whether for your home or as a gift.

My Favorite Antique Store: Steinitz Gallery 

An extraordinary venue, on Rue Royale in the Right Bank, housing the finest pieces of 18th and 19th century furniture and art objects. The mansion is steeped in history and was occupied in the late 19th century by Maison Jansen, one of France's leading interior decorators at the time.

My Favorite Green Space: Rodin Museum Gardens

The garden of the Rodin Museum is a haven in the center of Paris. It’s vast, perfect for leisurely walks, and a successful encounter between nature and culture: Rodin’s sculptures interact with the trees and flowers in every season. With each visit, I experience it through a different emotion.

My Favorite Lesser-known Spot: Deyrolle

It's not hidden, but it's an incredible visit: Deyrolle, the taxidermist on Rue du Bac. Somewhere between a cabinet of curiosities and a museum, this one of a kind spot has been located in the heart of the Left Bank since the mid-19th century. It offers an unusual journey through a world of insects, birds, shells, and taxidermied animals (all of which died of natural causes). An experience that never fails to impress. 

My Favorite Place of Architectural Interest: Hôtel de la Marine

A jewel of the 18th century, the Hôtel de la Marine is, in my view, an essential place for understanding one of our fundamental roots - both in French culture and in what has shaped the identity of Liaigre, which continues to inspire me. Through both its architecture and its furnishings, it stands as one of the great landmarks of French decorative arts, in my opinion, with the Château de Versailles.

It helps us understand where we come from, as well as this absolute pursuit of aesthetic excellence. A visit also offers breathtaking views over Place de la Concorde and the ever-changing Parisian skies.

I also remember discovering, when I was younger, the famous 'Maison de verre' designed by Pierre Chareau. I visited it long after leaving my parents home – which was close by – and was completely amazed when I discovered the inside of this building, which I had always fantasized about as a kid.