The minute you step through the building’s cobbled stone entrance you know it's going to be special. Located in a 16th century Hôtel, the new flagship Ralph Lauren store on Boulevard St Germain embraces the classic French facade and delivers an absolutely divine interior in the Rococo style. The ground floor bar and dining, with its club like leather seats and French oak beams, suggests one should be on their best gentleman-like behaviour, order a cognac and light up a cigar. The interior courtyard, originally stables for carriages and horses, is a charming alfresco seating alternative if you prefer something a little lighter in your dining decor (see story below). At 2135 square metres it is the American label’s largest flagship store in Europe and showcases a full range of men’s and women’s collections, accessories and watches (the 30,000 Euro divine dark navy Ricky bag was not on my shopping list!) Ralph Lauren has delivered the most exquisite attention to detail and luxury with a capital L. Ralph Lauren, 173 Boulevard St Germain, 75006 Paris.
An American in Paris
Ralph’s
Ralph's is the very chic and rather relaxed restaurant on Boulevard St Germain. After an 'eye spy' of the store earlier in the day I was lucky enough to secure a table for one that very evening. On a balmy autumn night in October I dined al fresco in the cobbled stone courtyard. I found the staff to be completely charming and the food good. I had heard rumors about how 'outrageously expensive' it was to dine here but in my experience it offered value for the euro I parted with. I also expected it to be full of Americans but non! I was surrounded by tables full of well-heeled locals. Bookings are essential.
Ralph's. Ralph Lauren, 173 Boulevard St Germain, Paris.
