We still heart classics such as Chez Prune, Artazart and Du Pain et des Idées, but there are plenty of more recent addresses to explore around the Canal Saint-Martin, a 15-minute stroll from Gare du Nord. From ethical eats to must-browse shops, here’s what caught our fancy:

  • Holybelly

    5, rue Lucien Sampaix, 75010

    by Marienoelle Bauer

    Credited with changing the face of brunch in the capital, courtesy of its killer coffee and pancakes, this Aussie joint recently moved to bigger, swankier digs. Even so, you might still have to queue on weekends.

  • Pompon Bazar

    15, rue du Château d’Eau, 75010

    by Marienoelle Bauer

    A bohemian rhapsody of vibrant patchwork wall-hangings, kilims, Berber rugs and mirrors galore. There’s a sister interiors store 500 metres away selling furniture and lighting, open only on Saturdays or by appointment.

  • Les Résistants

    16-18, rue du Château d’Eau, 75010

    by Marienoelle Bauer

    A bunch of childhood friends are behind this spectacular two-storey ethical restaurant (check out those crazy wicker chandeliers!). With your meal, you get a mini CV of the small-scale producers of everything on your plate.

  • Billy the Kid

    64 Rue de Reuilly, 75012 Paris, France

    by Marienoelle Bauer

    Love the name. Love the exuberant selection of fun stuff for small fry at all price points – much of it green and made in France. Our personal must-haves are the rainbow roller-skates and mermaid patches.

  • Lily of the Valley

    47, rue de Lancry, 75010

    by Marienoelle Bauer

    Paris cool meets Alice in Wonderland at this unabashedly girly tea-room. The organic French brews and pâtisseries are affordable, so make ours a peppery cuppa of La Parisienne with a slice of chocolate tart.

  • PS by Paul Smith

    15, rue de Marseille, 75010

    by Marienoelle Bauer

    This is the first boutique devoted entirely to the British designer’s cheaper secondary PS line for men and women. Locals are gaga for its bold colour-blocking and deep hues, as well as Smith’s signature florals and quirky motifs.

  • Petite Mendigote

    19, rue Beaurepaire, 75010

    by Marienoelle Bauer

    What started as a modest accessories line has flourished into a fully-fledged fashion success story that includes chic glittery dresses. Yet the most popular item is the Pochette message clutch, with slogans such as ‘Liberté, Egalité, Beyoncé’.

  • IMA

    39, Quai de Valmy, 75010

    by Marienoelle Bauer

    Located right on the edge of the canal, this hip deli surfs nicely on the current Middle Eastern trend. It serves fresh, intricate salads that would make Ottolenghi proud, as well as smashing fig tarts.

Image credits: © Adèle Prieur & Axel Van Hessche; © Adèle Prieur & Axel Van Hessche; © Nicol Alary; © Pompon Bazar; © Adèle Prieur & Axel Van Hessche; © billy the kid; © Lily of the Valley; © PS by Paul Smith; © Petite Mendigote; © IMA