5 things to do in Paris this weekend

In a weekend when the entire city will be focused on Paris+ Art Basel, there are several other events and places that are worth stopping by to take a break. From where to find the most authentic tacos in Paris to where you can indulge in quality and unique shopping, discover what the city has to offer this weekend.

To eat: Nomás Tacos

When one thinks of dining in Paris, tacos may not necessarily come to mind, but you would be surprised. The city is full of taco restaurants, some more authentic than others. In the 10th arrondissement, you can find Nomás Tacos. In a small stainless steel stand, reminiscent of the food trucks found in the United States, the chefs at Nomás Tacos offer a range of authentic Mexican dishes. Opened in 2023 by Alexis Melikov, the founder of another Parisian favorite, Tigermilk, the restaurant/food truck aspires to become a franchise, hoping to open locations throughout Paris and already having one established in Lille. On the menu? Quesadillas cochinita pibil, pollo, and vegetarian versions. Tacos carnitas, birria, barbacoa, and even vegetarian ones, all served in traditional corn tortillas. The restaurant also offers classic burritos, and all of this at a surprisingly affordable price. A single taco costs €2.50, making it the perfect spot for a quick meal. Not to mention that Nomás offers Mexican beers like a refreshing Modelo or an Ocho Reales, not to mention their delicious frozen margaritas, which can, of course, be served spicy. Additionally, spicy salsas are available for the more adventurous. Since it's contemporary art week, most restaurants are likely to be fully booked, but at Nomás, you are sure to find a good meal without waiting in line. With only two outdoor tables, you can enjoy a quick meal before heading to the various art exhibitions happening in the city.

Nomás Tacos - 44 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010 Paris

To discover: "Océans, l'Odyssée Immersive" - l'Atelier des Lumières

Located in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, the Atelier des Lumières has been captivating enthusiasts of immersive art since its opening in 2011. Created by the private art conservation company Culturespaces, this artistic paradise initially showcased the works of Austrian painter Gustav Klimt, followed by 'Van Gogh, Starry Night' and 'Dali, the Endless Enigma.' The immersive exhibition features thousands of digitized images displayed throughout the space, projected in very high resolution by 150 projectors, accompanied by various soundtracks. Once inside the Atelier, visitors are immersed in the artists' works, providing a unique experience beyond the conventions of a traditional gallery. This weekend, the Atelier will present 'Oceans, the Immersive Odyssey' by American photojournalist and filmmaker Brian Skerry. The exhibition will plunge visitors below sea level, offering incredible views of what lies in the depths of the Arctic seas, captured by Skerry over four decades. Expect to be completely immersed in marine life, from vibrant coral reefs and playful orcas to the deep-sea creatures found nowhere else. Dive into this vibrant marine landscape, a perfect place to explore with friends or for a unique romantic date. Either way, it's still contemporary art week, after all.

Atelier des Lumières - 38 Rue Saint-Maur, 75011 Paris

Where to have fun: Paris+ Art Basel - Grand Palais Éphémère et ailleurs

A spinoff of the iconic Art Basel festival held annually in Miami Beach, Florida, as well as in Switzerland and Hong Kong, the Paris+ Art Basel event was first launched in 2022. The event is now back for its second edition and promises to be exceptional. The event takes place at the Grand Palais Éphémère, just a stone's throw from the Eiffel Tower. This year, the event brings together 154 galleries from around the world, offering Parisians and tourists the opportunity to discover works from the international art world. Furthermore, this edition extends beyond the Palais. In collaboration with the Louvre Museum, an exhibition titled 'The Fifth Season' will be presented in the Tuileries Garden. The Palais d'Iéna will also host an exhibition featuring Daniel Buren and Michelangelo Pistoletto. A five-meter-tall aluminum sculpture by Urs Fischer will also be on display at Place Vendôme. In short, the city will be a true paradise for artists this weekend, and although there are many different events, the Grand Palais Éphémère is certainly a place where friends can gather and spend hours exploring exciting contemporary artworks. Tickets are available online on the Palais's website at varying prices.

Grand Palais Éphémère - 2 Pl. Joffre, 75007 Paris

Where to go shopping: Les Passages Couvertes

Before there were shopping malls in Paris, there were the Covered Passages. These hidden passageways once served as shortcuts for Parisians, shelters from the rain, places for quality dining, and, of course, shopping centers. Today, the passages are best known for their extensive networks of small niche shops where you can discover antique and unique trinkets, selling everything from jewelry and art to porcelain and antique furniture. The elegant Galerie Vivienne in the 2nd arrondissement, with its mosaic floors, houses stylish boutiques as well as a renowned wine cellar and delicatessen: Legrand Filles et Fils. Opened in 1834, the Passage des Panoramas is perhaps the most characterful of the Parisian passages, evoking the Paris of the 19th century, as if it had remained untouched since its inception. It features quality bars and restaurants, as well as shops selling vintage postcards. Whether you're in search of gifts for loved ones or antique pieces to decorate your apartment, there's something for everyone in these beloved passages.

Galerie Vivienne - 4 Rue des Petits Champs, 75002 Paris

Passage des Panoramas - 11 Blvd Montmartre, 75002 Paris

Where to party: Mutant After Party - Club Virage

After opening its doors in 2022, Club Virage is back for the 2023 season. Founded by DJ RAG, the club's artistic co-director and artistic director of the Barbi(e)turix collective, along with Benjamin Charvet, who is also the artistic director of Badaboum, Club Virage is located under the ring road in the 17th arrondissement of Paris. The club is an outdoor space that allows patrons to enjoy the cool night air while dancing to the sounds of techno, EBM, and indie dance music. For your weekend night out, the Mutant magazine After Party is the perfect place to dance until the morning after a day filled with art gallery visits. The lineup includes sets by DINA, electronic DJ Ferdinger, Berlin-based DJ Lolsnake, and Brussels-based DJ Oton. The event runs from 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM, and tickets are available online at the following address: https://ra.co/events/1789676.

26 rue Hélène-et-François Missoffe