Parisian buildings are all about the charming courtyards, but not all courtyards are created equal. The best, most enchanting courtyard, the Queen of All Courtyards, for me, is the courtyard at the Plaza Athenee Hotel on Avenue Montaigne.

With green ivy covering the pale limestone walls, bright red window awning and patio umbrellas, white table cloth and the most civilised of service, La Cour Jardin is a special place, a secret address, a little oasis from the outside world.

You may be able to get equally excellent food for less elsewhere and at plenty a charming restaurants. But I still would recommend at least once in your life to take yourself to lunch at Paris's most secretive courtyard.

CONTACT

www.dorchestercollection.com

IMAGES

Lead-In Image - Hotel Plaza Athenee / Facebook; Back of Card Image - La Cour Jardin, Hotel Plaza Athenee, Dorchester Collection / Official Site