Where were you born and where do you live?

Paris and Paris. I live in the Marais.

What’s best about your neighbourhood?

The cultural mix. There’s modernity and beautifully historic places, artistic creation represented in the numerous art galleries, and conviviality embodied by the many small restaurants and terraces lining the sidewalks.

If money was no object, where would you live?

In the same area, but with more space. I love this neighbourhood! But l’Île St Louis could also be an option.

Which are your favourite Paris stores?

Fifi de Vem, a little designer boutique for children where I love to buy stuff for my daughter, the concept store Merci on boulevard Beaumarchais, and I’m also a fan of all the designer furniture stores on boulevard Saint-Germain.

And your favourite restaurants?

Le Chateaubriand, Ferdi, Thoumieux and Guilo Guilo.

Do you have a favourite local café or pub?

Camille on rue des Francs Bourgeois next to my studio.

Any recommendations for dishes to try?

It is a typical French brasserie, so all the meat is delicious.

Where do you like to celebrate?

Bar Hemingway at the Ritz.

Do you have a favourite Paris walk?

L’Île St Louis.

Which is the city’s best attraction?

The bateaux mouches [pleasure boats] on the Seine.

Which do you think is the best museum in Paris?

Le musée Beaubourg, and Le Grand Palais for the Monumenta exhibitions.

Which Parisian do you most admire? 

Juliette Gréco.

Any advice for visitors?

Take your time and wander around on foot.

Any places you’d recommend avoiding?

The Champs-Elysées on Sunday.

What can’t you live without?

My sunglasses.

Tell us a secret.

My favourite moments in Paris are about walking around in the morning, especially in Le Marais. Everything is calm and there is a feeling of softness. Paris is beautiful in the morning light.

Barbara Bui