On our way to an unexpected spring break in Paris, we allowed our imagination to set the scene for what to expect when we walked through the doors of Monsieur George, knowing it would bear the hallmark of one of the pioneers of boutique hotel design, Anouska Hempel. As anticipated, we discovered that she had brought her magic to Monsieur George, transforming a classic Haussmannian building into a luxurious 5-star haven of hospitality.

Nestled just off the main street of the Champs-Élysées, the hotel is conveniently situated a mere stone's throw away from George V metro station, named after King George V, Queen Elizabeth II's grandfather. However, another George holds sway just a few steps up Rue Washington. Upon entering, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of opulence. The lobby is adorned with a dazzling crystal chandelier, marble floors, and plush velvet furnishings. The fusion of ornate antiques with modern art pieces creates a timeless and avant-garde ambience.

Monsieur George offers an array of sumptuously appointed accommodations, each meticulously designed to provide an oasis of comfort and tranquillity amidst the bustling city. From the cosy classic, executive, or deluxe rooms offering breath-taking views of iconic Parisian landmarks to the expansive suites that exude an air of exclusivity, every guestroom, you might say, is a sanctuary of luxury. Rich silk drapes, bespoke furniture, and plush bedding beckon guests to unwind and immerse themselves in the lavish surroundings. The three categories of rooms on offer all share the dark and lush stylistic characteristics you have come to expect from hotels designed by Hempel. This design aesthetic is also very evident in the Garden Suite, which has been created for the most bucolic of guests, nestled within the inner garden. In stark contrast, the other suites, positioned on the top floor with panoramic views of the Tour Eiffel and Sacré-Cœur, are designed in a white and airy style. Here, the sunrise ushers in a spectrum of tones—white, grey, and terracotta—from the iconic Parisian rooftops that extend as far as the eye can see.

Dining at Monsieur George is a culinary journey that mirrors the diverse and exquisite nature of Parisian cuisine. The hotel's gastronomic restaurant, Galanga, led by Thomas Danigo, presents a symphony of flavours that captivate the palate. Guests have the opportunity to savour meticulously crafted tasting menus paired with wines that showcase the finest local ingredients while paying homage to international culinary influences. During lunchtime, La Table de Monsieur George, serving as both a bar and restaurant, becomes a gathering place for Parisians and travellers alike. During our stay, we relished dishes like the cod dressed with Espelette pepper, smoked eggplant caviar, avocado, and sauce vierge. For those seeking a vegetarian option, the linguine with summer truffle, chanterelle mushrooms, pecorino, and wild pepper proved to be an exquisite choice.

However, for those who wish to explore the local gastronomy scene, the concierge stands ready to guide you towards some of the neighbourhoods’ most reputable eateries, following the lead of none other than Monsieur Georges himself. 'If he isn't found at his own Galanga, you might discover him at Monsieur Bleu, enjoying a night-time view of the twinkling Eiffel Tower. As the night deepens, he might decide to stroll over to the Salle Pleyel for a concert. Following the performance, he often slips out the back door and finds his way to Chez Noto for a dynamic dining experience that seamlessly transitions into a nightclub atmosphere. And if it's not a night of music, he tends to head to the Théâtre du Rond-Point to immerse himself in cutting-edge theatre performances.

And for the night owls, the excellent 24-hour room service at Monsieur George, offering delicacies like smoked salmon, linguine, and chocolate cake, is certainly worth noting. Finally, even though we didn't find the time to take advantage of the spa facilities, such gastronomic indulgence, as mentioned above, might be well balanced with a visit to the cellar of Monsieur George. Here, Le Tigre, Paris's beloved yoga and wellness mecca, extends an array of personalized self-care options, including private in-room yoga classes and personal trainers. This becomes a moment to reconnect and realign your body, heart, and mind, leaving the stresses of everyday life behind. Maybe next time.