We had a wonderful time exploring Paris’s 12th arrondissement during an eco-conscious staycation at the Hotel de la Porte Dorée.
We loved visiting the local market
Stepping out of the hotel, we immediately wandered into a bustling local market right in front of the building. Stalls offered colorful, mostly organic fruits and vegetables and a beautiful flower stand. I’m especially fond of white roses — do you have a favorite flower?
Thank you to the Hotel de la Porte Dorée for sponsoring this post. All opinions are our own. Affiliate links included.
Chalet des Iles Daumesnil
After browsing the market, we strolled into the Bois de Vincennes aiming for a relaxed, romantic lunch. We soon discovered Chalet des Iles on Lac Daumesnil and decided it was perfect.
Our lunch was delightful: accras, beef tartare and a grilled salmon bobun.
Accras are traditionally made with cod, so we were pleased to find crab-filled versions that tasted more like crabcakes—an unexpected treat. Having lived in Paris for many years, I still miss certain dishes from home, and these were a delicious reminder of that comfort food excitement.
Hugo ordered beef tartare and declared it one of the best he’s had in Paris. My grilled salmon bobun was also excellent — generous portions of salmon accompanied by crisp, fresh vegetables.
We paired the meal with a chilled rosé and enjoyed the peaceful lakeside setting.
The Bois de Vincennes and Lac Daumesnil
One advantage of staying in the 12th arrondissement is being a little off the usual tourist routes while still close to beautiful parks, cafes and attractions. The Hotel de la Porte Dorée sits near the Bois de Vincennes and Lac Daumesnil, making it easy to enjoy serene walks and nature right in the city.
The Porte Dorée Aquarium
Travel is about new experiences and shared moments. We discovered that the Aquarium de la Porte Dorée was only steps from the hotel, so we set aside a couple of hours to explore.
The aquarium is charming and unique. Opened in 1931 and preserved in much of its original style, it offers an old-world atmosphere that’s rare today. It’s a lovely outing for families or couples who enjoy watching colorful marine life and appreciate the historical setting.
A romantic dinner at a local family restaurant — Chez Ma Belle Mère
That evening we dined at Chez Ma Belle Mère in the 12th arrondissement. The restaurant’s cozy, playful atmosphere leans into a humorous take on the stereotypical mother-in-law with cheeky decor and sayings on the walls. The food was comforting and tasty, and the experience added laughter to our night. (My real mother-in-law is wonderful — this was all in jest!)
Gelato at Place des Vosges
After dinner we took the metro to the Marais for a stroll through the Place des Vosges and a gelato. We’re fans of Amorino, especially during the summer when they offer several organic flavors — yogurt and Sicilian lemon are two of our favorites.
Back to our home away from home at the Hotel de la Porte Dorée
After a long, lovely day we were happy to return to the Hotel de la Porte Dorée, change into our robes and relax in our comfortable room.
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The places mentioned in this post :
The Hotel de la Porte Dorée : 273, Avenue Daumesnil, 75012 Paris | Tel. 01.43.07.56.97
Chalet des Iles : Ile de Reuilly, Bois de Vincennes, 75012 Paris | Tel. 01.43.07.00.10
Chez Ma Belle Mère : 257, Avenue Daumesnil, 75012 Paris | Tel. 01.43.44.38.21
Amorino, Place des Vosges : 1, rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75004 Paris | Tel. 09.80.55.73.90
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Read about our Eco-Chic Parisian Staycation at the Hotel de la Porte Dorée in another post.