Aux Pres

27 rue du Dragon, 75006 Paris 

Lets be honest. Paris is not a place for cocktails — or is it? Cyril Lignac shakes that theory up with his elegantly designed, intimate French haunt with Asian influences throughout.

Picture this: you’ve succumbed to the delectable libation you were offered to start the night, and now your taste buds are tantalized bite by bite through the language of modern French plates. It’s Lignac doing what he does best — taking tradition, giving it a wink, and sending it back out into the world with better shoes. French comfort with a glossy finish.

The crowd is a mix of locals, discreet regulars, fashion people pretending not to pose, and tourists who think they’ve stumbled upon a secret. They haven’t, but it doesn’t matter, the illusion is delicious. The vibe is warm enough to keep you from feeling out of place, cool enough to keep you on your toes.

BONUS: Le Bar (another concoction in Lignac’s ensemble) is next door and offers more of the same. Sexy drinks, snacks, and new friends. Arguably the best cocktails in Paris.