Paris conjures up images of croissants, cafes, and couture–not kale. But that’s changing.
There’s a rapidly evolving health scene in the City of Lights, confirms Kim D’Amato, a former model and founder of the popular, non-toxic nail lacquer line Priti NYC.
D’Amato, who lives part of the year in Paris, says that while French women may still have that je ne sais quoi we idolize, they’re now getting it more naturally. How? From natural beauty spots to cold-pressed juice bars. Here are some of D’Amato’s favorite healthy hot spots in Paris. —Randi Eichenbaum
(Photo: Pinterest.com)
Bob’s Juice Bar
“In New York, I have Organic Avenue and in Paris I have Bob’s!” says D’Amato of her regular juice bar and home away from home. “I think it’s the city’s first juice bar, and it’s the only one I know of here. You can can order cold-pressed green juices for delivery. And delivery is a rare thing here in Paris. It’s the closest we have to New York convenience!”
5 Rue Lucien Sampaix, 75010, +33 9 50 06 36 18, www.bobsjuicebar.com
Photo: Tricia Khan
Spa Nuxe
Spa Nuxe is a beautiful spa cave with 13 treatment rooms—that’s large in Paris. “Nuxe’s gentle, plant-based products make your skin just glow,” says D’Amato. “They even massage your tummy during a facial—it’s a completely relaxing experience.”
34 Rue Montorgueil, 75001, +33 1 42 36 65 65, www.fr.nuxe.com/spas
Photo: Spa Nuxe
The Kale Project
“I love to read The Kale Project—it’s kind of like an adventure and a cookbook and one young lady’s mission. Kristen Beddard is challenging the French with her kale-eating ideas and the recipes are fantastic. It reminds me how one person’s idea and passion can change the lives of many.”
Lolë Atelier
Lolë, the Canadian fitness and lifestyle clothing company, has an amazing eco collection, gushes D’Amato. “They make clothes from recycled and organic materials, and I really like that about them. In Paris, it’s nearly against the law to be seen in public wearing workout clothes. So I go for the dresses, which are perfect to throw on over tights with boots, and I’ll wear the more casual pieces at home.”
9 Rue des Blancs Manteaux, 75004, +33 1 42 78 18 24, www.lolewomen.com
Café Pinson
“It’s the most wonderful little spot: All the food is vegetarian, mostly vegan, and gluten free. It’s a great place to have tea and read a good book, and I’ve had many a long girl’s lunch here with organic wine and the wonderful soups and salads. It’s a beautifully decorated stylish place that I just love.”
6 Rue du Forez, 75003, +33 9 83 82 53 53, www.cafepinson.fr
(Photo: Philippe Levy)
Oh My Cream
“Oh My Cream is a very cute and small beauty concept shop in the 6th Arrondissement. I buy my Tata Harper products there,” says D’Amato, about the beauty retailer, which has a cool online store, even if it is all in French.
3 Rue de Tournon, 75006, +33 01 43 54 80 83, www.ohmycream.com
Verjus
Americans run this famously delicious spot known for its small plates and wine bar. “Order the Buffalo milk and ricotta dumplings with peas and carrots, hazelnuts, and wild herbs—it’s fantastic. As is the Greek yogurt sorbet with lavender honey,” says D’Amato.
52 Rue de Richelieu, 75001, +33 1 42 97 54 40, www.verjusparis.com
Photo: Diane Yoon
Farmers Markets
I live in the 7th Arrondissement, on Rue Cler, which is a market and foodie street that is pieton (pedestrian-only). I buy my food fresh here everyday. Also, on the Marché Raspail, between Rue du Cherche-Midi and Rue de Rennes, there’s an organic farmers market that’s great to roam and pick up some fresh vegetables. In France, we’re lucky to have so much organic produce.
Photo: Lifestyled.com
The Dailey Method Paris
“The fitness scene is slowly growing in Paris. There’s quite a bit of yoga, and now this popular barre workout in the 16th Arrondissement. The Dailey Method was born in California, and the founder’s sister runs the Paris studio.”
71 Avenue Victor Hugo, 75116, +33 (0)1 40 67 98 57, thedaileymethod.fr
Photo: The Dailey Method Paris
It’s meat-heavy, but a lot of people come here for the vegetarian dishes. “I’ll get the fish soup, chickpea pesto mango salad, and rosemary orange cassis ice cream for dessert…yummy. The waitresses speak both English and French, and are amazing. If you don’t have a reservation, they may be able to squeeze you in at the bar.”
69 Rue de Seine, 75006, +33 1 43 54 34 69
Photo: Fish La Boissonnerie
ASSA, Salon de Massage Japonais
In Japan they say “the feet are the body’s second heart,” and this spa is dedicated to the relief of tired pieds (feet) and Shiatsu (pictured), says D’Amato. “The reflexology is especially incredible. My feet are size 42–43, and I live in a size 40–41 society over here. So I’m often in need of this treatment.”
8 Rue Christine, 75006, +33 01 46 34 59 08, www.assa-spa.fr
Photo: ASSA
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