Hôtel Relais Saint Germain
"How did it strike you on arrival?For many travelers, this is peak Paris. Ideally located for exploring the Left Bank, this boutique four-star owned by celebrity chef Yves Camdeborde—whose much-lauded Le Comptoir sits on the ground floor—has earned loyalists with its warm service, quirky charm, and high-quality in-house eats. Perhaps as a nod to the nearby Sorbonne, literature is the main theme, with shared spaces filled with books, and lots of clubby nooks in which to read them. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Everyone's comfortable here, from solo travelers who appreciate the attentive service to Paris regulars who feel like they've come home. Foodies are lured by the fact that hotel guests get priority reservations at Le Comptoir, allowing them to skip the perennial lines. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Spread throughout the 17th-century building, each of the rooms has been inspired by a writer with ties to Paris, from Balzac and Dumas to Marguerite de Navarre, but the homages are subtle—a portrait or vintage typewriter here, a bicycle in another. The decor varies between spaces, but all have wood-beamed ceilings, boldly—patterned wallpaper or curtains, espresso- and tea-making facilities, and views of the Carrefour de l’Odéon. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?One unexpected touch: Japanese channels on the cable TV. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms are small, but they are well-stocked with steam showers, organic Casanera bath and body products, and extras like shaving kits and toothbrushes. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is complimentary. Room service: Worth it?As an added plus, room service (available until 10 p.m.) comes courtesy of Le Comptoir, and the included breakfast can be enjoyed in-room or at the restaurant. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Indulge at Le Comptoir, where Chef Camdeborde serves gourmet bistro menus crafted with fresh local products, paired with vintages from his friends' wineries. A few doors down, the chef also oversees L'Avant Comptoir, a separate space for casual pre-dinner or late-night drinks, charcuterie boards, and other shared bites. Spa services are available in-room upon request, via an outside provider. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Warm service, good eats, and plenty of Gallic charm make this a fast favorite with guests seeking an authentic slice of Paris." - Sandra Ramani
