What used to be a 19th century railway, taking trains from St Maur to present day Bastille Opera, became the only elevated park in the world, designed by architechts Jacques Vergely and Philippe Mathieux in 1993.

4,5 kms long, this two-level promenade snakes through the urban jungle of the 12th arrondissement from Bastille to Bois de Vincennes seemingly unnoticed but one just needs to climb a flight of stairs at the Viaduc des Arts (itself renovated into fine art galleries, crafts and antique shops) and suddenly an enchanting path of topiaries, flowers and trees appears.

Along the way you will find benches, water fountains, separate cycling and pedestrian paths, a park and playground, as well as several cafes and restaurants.

Open: 8h weekdays & 9h on the weekends
Closes: January: 17h30
Fabruary: 18h
March: 19h
15 April – 15 May: 21h
15 May – 31August: 21h30
September: 20h30

M: Bastille

Free WiFi Access

The  chesterfield English leather sofas, black and white tile flooring, rich red walls, velvet curtains, brass bars, very low lighting and allusions to gentleman clubs take you out of time and into the roaring 20′s… albeit minus the  smoking. If you are looking for a comfortable dinner you may be disappointed – lighting is much too low, but if you are coming to have proper cocktails in a proper lounge with a small appetizer on the side, it is an address to keep. On a sunny afternoon  ask for a table upstairs in the fumoir.  Try for a quiet corner table if you’re on a date.  The menu consists of updated Asian dishes. The service can be a little haughty but pay no attention. Reservations are preferred.

PS. Until recently this establishment was called China Club and downstairs jazz concerts still happen several times a week.

Practical Information

Tel: 00 33 (0)1 43 46 08 09
Address: 50, Rue de Charenton, 75012
M: Bastille
Average Price: Cocktails 12 euros; Main course 15 euros
Opening Hours: Everyday 18h-02h; Brunch Saturday and Sunday at noon

33 1 43 70 04 04
9, rue de Reuilly Paris 75012
http://www.lequartierhotelbf.com
120 to 150 euros
M: Faidherbe Chaligny; Reuilly Diderot
61 rooms; free breakfast; free internet
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