The Concorde OperaParis Hotel: four star hotel with a five star lobby and service. Located near the Palais Garnier, the Hotel Concorde Opéra Paris is a four star hotel with a five star lobby and service. As I write this post the hotel is amidst big changes. The Hilton Hotel chain has purchased the property and is beginning renovations of the rooms soon. The management team of Hilton has already begun working with the staff to ensure a smooth transition and their goal is to deliver guests a first class experience once completed.
What I hope does not change is the old world lobby with its rich history and breathtaking crystal chandeliers. The lobby was built in 1889 by the pupils of August Eiffel. Cherub angels face guests in between the archways at the top of the first level except one. The story goes, that the painter of the angels was disappointed that he did not receive the pay he felt he deserved so he exacted his revenge upon the hoteliers by painting one cherub with his back to the clients. No one noticed this until well after its completion and it remains today. When you enter the lobby from the street it will be on the right, check it out!
Another thing I hope remains the same is the African themed Golden Black Bar because it is cozy and the specialty cocktails are not only amazing, but reasonably priced as well. In fact, the Cosmo martini I ordered was the BEST tasting and most BEAUTIFUL one I have ever seen! Garnished with rubrum berries and a swirled piece of lime rind, it was so festive and fun. The window seats on rue Saint-Lazare are tucked away up in the front and give you a great perch to check out the Paris fashion walking past.
The amazing lobby is an incredible space to sit and have a cup of coffee and chat with friends. I witnessed many guests leaving breakfast with their java in hand just to sit there. Speaking of breakfast, it was really nice; excellent coffee (with to-go cups for those in a rush or for those who wish to sit in the splendor of the lobby) and heaps of fresh fruit and breads along with separate hot and cold buffets. The yogurt and cereal bar was stocked to the brim and provided excellent options to start the day off right.
Gold Key Concierge Vincent Brand
I interviewed one of the Gold Key Concierges named Vincent Brand who shared the story with me about the angel and lots of other great things about the hotel. My interview with Vince will appear in a future post as part of my concierge series. Vince was one of the several people who made our stay quite an enjoyable one. Everyone from the front desk staff to the bellmen was very helpful and full of wonderful suggestions to assist in making our stay pleasurable.
Our room was a standard size for a Paris four-star hotel and the bathroom was a decent size for one or a couple. It was a bit small for Gal Pals sharing since the all-in-one tub/shower combo, toilet and vanity meant we had to get ready one at a time. The toiletries were decent, but nothing special. I am sure with the renovations, all will be updated and perhaps even the rooms will be reconfigured for more efficient use of space. I did love, however, having a room with a view of the street and loads of closet space for luggage. There’s just something about waking up and throwing the sash open and seeing a wide street with interesting people watching below.
Location
Hilton Concorde Opéra Paris 108, rue Saint-Lazare |
75008 Paris | France | Tel: +33 (0) 1 40 08 44 44
All photos are the property of The Weekend In Paris. Must obtain permission before use.