5 things to do in Paris this weekend

Despite the gray and overcast sky, the city is bustling with activities for all tastes. Rediscover French gastronomy classics at a new address nestled in the heart of the Left Bank by dining at Oktobre. Enjoy an evening dedicated to one of Paris's most popular musicians with merchandise sales and DJ sets. Finally, close out your Saturday with dancing at a brand-new event orchestrated by two of the city's most promising programmers. Discover what the city has to offer you this weekend.

Where to Eat - Oktobre

Formerly known as KGB (Kitchen Galerie Bis), an offshoot of the Michelin-starred Ze Kitchen Gallerie, the new restaurant Oktobre now occupies the space, with young chef Martin Maumet at the helm. Recently opened in October, Oktobre is decorated by the Bateaumagne studio, giving the restaurant a minimalist brasserie style with a touch of contemporary art ambiance. The restaurant is warm, welcoming, and worth a visit. It is open for lunch and dinner, offering an afternoon package including a starter, main course, and dessert for 49 euros. Each dish is made with fresh ingredients to create traditional French dishes with certain Asian ingredients. We recommend the catch of the day for your lunch, accompanied by a bouillabaisse juice and fennel. Then, opt for one of their decadent desserts, like the fig and shiso tart. For dinner, why not choose the perfectly cooked quail, accompanied by mushrooms and a fig compote with gochujang, a basic ingredient in Korean cuisine. If you plan to visit Oktobre, expect a high-end and unique gastronomic experience.

25 Rue des Grands Augustins, 75006

Discover - ‘The Foot Hanger’ Vernissage

The versatile and multidisciplinary French artist Matteo Voisin presents his latest architectural work this weekend, described as a “declaration between art and function.” Currently studying at the University of the Arts in London, ‘The Foot Hanger’ was produced by Voisin in 2022, where it hung on the wall of his room for months before a trip to San Francisco, where a friend asked if he considered selling it. After graduating from high school in 2022, Voisin started producing other pieces, working on marketing, and preparing for the vernissage during which the inventive foot-shaped coat hanger will be presented to the public. Inspired by a trip to the Vitra Museum in Germany, Voisin directs his artistic talents toward furniture creation, always keeping functionality in mind, without neglecting style and originality. From December 16 to 17, the pop-up/vernissage ‘The Foot Hanger’ will be held at 5 rue Payenne in the 3rd arrondissement from 9 am to 7 pm, and the pieces will be sold in limited quantities in-store and online. Perhaps one of the next great furniture designers of our generation, come this weekend to discover Voisin's inventive take on an integral element for all homes. Also to discover,

5 rue Payenne, 75003

Where to Have Fun - Lyric Magazine Exhibition

On Friday night, a special evening will be dedicated to the French musical artist Mikano to celebrate his 2022 intimate album, Akwa II, and other related projects. The exhibition will feature works by Parisian photographers Mathieu Maury, Laurent Segretier, and Ferina, all known for their avant-garde style and provocative photos and videos, all three having previously worked with Mikano on various projects. DJ sets by Camporeale and Ian Andria will conclude the evening, which will take place from 7 pm to 10 pm. Expect an eclectic evening with some of the city's most popular creators. Join us at the Galerie de Roi, a unique event space, for this special event and get ready to be inspired. Additionally, Mikano's Changes merchandise will be available during the event, as well as the limited quantities of the AKWA photography book, and Ferina's Lyric Magazine of Akwa 2. Don't forget to reserve your spot by sending an email to [email protected]

Galerie de Roi - 75 Rue de la Fontaine au Roi, 75011

Where to Shop - The Gros Marché, La Felicita, and Le Hasard Ludique

Usually located in the basement of Ground Control, the industrial site that houses shops and restaurants, the Gros Marché sets up for the Christmas holidays around Paris to offer a perfect shopping experience without breaking the bank. Disappointed by the lack of quality Christmas markets in Paris, often expensive, the Gros Marché teams wanted to provide consumers with an experience where they can discover second-hand, vintage, handmade, and other sustainable products for no more than 10 euros. This weekend, the market will be set up in three major locations in the city, emphasizing inclusivity and particularly focusing on female and non-binary creators. Shoppers can expect a unique experience at each location, with over 100 creators, a drag queen bingo event, dedicated discussions, catering service from La Felicita, and much more.

Dec. 16 & 17:

• La Bellevilloise, 19-21 Rue Boyer, 75020 12 pm - 7 pm
• La Felicità, 5 Parv. Alan Turing, 75013, 12 pm - 7 pm

Dec. 17:

• Le Hasard Ludique, 128 Av. de Saint-Ouen, 75018, 12 pm - 7 pm

Where to Party - Carnel Party

The fiery duo, composed of Carla Subovici and Manel Mebarki, once again turns the Left Bank upside down with a lineup of the sharpest. Known for breathing new life into the programming within the Assembly group, originally behind Silencio, Wanderlust, and the former Social Club, the two enthusiasts are now launching their own night: Carnel. On December 16, Silencio des Près will come alive with the rhythms of tracks played by experienced DJs such as Cezaire, Kiroubel, and Mel V. On the agenda? Eclectic sounds ranging from hip-hop to batida, afrobeats, baile funk, and house. This evening will undoubtedly be the first of many Carnel events, so get ready and come enjoy what the duo has concocted for Parisian night owls, from 10 pm to 2 am.

22 Rue Guillaume Apollinaire, 75006