Housed in composer Bizet’s former residence, and named after his most famous opera, Le Carmen is Paris’ latest hot spot bar, and for good reasons. The listed 19th-century building provides a sumptuous setting with its grand columns, stucco cherubs, painted ceilings and arches, and a luxurious decor of gilded mirrors, velvet-backed chairs and even a grand piano, all romantically illuminated by twinkling chandeliers and candlelight galore. The divan and the human-sized bird cage provide perfect settings for an amorous interlude. There is no drinks menu, but expertly mixed cocktails can be made-to-order at the bar according to your tastes and the whims of the barman.

Despite all this grandeur, Le Carmen has a laid back vibe, drawing in an eclectic crowd with its schedule of events ranging from live reggae music to classical music concerts from string quartets to raucous fashion week parties.