We are saying goodbye to the Year of the Ox and entering Year of the Tiger. Tuesday 1st February 2022 marks the Lunar New Year. The Lunar New Year is celebrated in China, as well as in Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines!
If you are looking for a way to celebrate, check out Paris’s three different Chinatowns. Expect bustling streets and busy restaurants at this time of year, which are perfect for soaking in the atmosphere and joining the celebrations! Or grab a bite to eat from your local takeaway (traiteur)!
Les Olympiades
The more active heart of the Chinese community in Paris is located in the Olympiades district of the 13th arrondissement. ~The Olympiades is Europe’s largest Chinatown in terms of size. While Recognisable thanks to its many 1970s high-rises, it’s a vibrant neighbourhood with excellent food!
The town hall of the 13th arrondissement is hosting a week of New Year’s celebrations including film screenings, round table discussions and exhibitions. Find the full programme (in French) here.
If you’re looking for something to eat in Les Olymiades, enjoy some excellent Vietnamese soup at Pho Bành Cuon 14, dig into some tasty and reasonably priced southeast Asian food at Lao Lane Xang 2, or have a traditional Chinese meal at Li Ka Fo. For something on the go, track down Thieng Heng, for an authentic Vietnamese banh mi sandwich, or some bubble tea at Bubble House..
Crowded Belleville district, Roberto
Belleville
Traditionally working class, rebellious and artistic, the neighbourhood of Belleville is a true melting pot. Along the bustling Boulevard de Belleville one can find North African hookah lounges, Jewish delis and Asian supermarkets.
Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the many Chinese restaurants and tea houses lining the main streets within 2-3 blocks of métro Belleville, especially along Rue Louis Bonnet.
The area’s most famous restaurant is Le Président, a vast Cantonese restaurant. For great Vietnamese pho or bobun, grab a table at Chez Yu and vegetarians might want to track down Best Tofu, a small casual joint packed with Asian diners (best for lunch as it closes at 8pm).
Rue au Maire, Vivre le Marais.
Arts-et-Métiers
The city’s original Chinatown is found in pocket of the 3rd arrondissement. As the traditional wholesale clothing district of the city, some Chinese, particularly from Wenzhou, settled in the area. Not too much is still visible today, however, around the City Hall of the district (la Mairie du 3ème) some Chinese shops and restaurants can be found on rue au Maire, rue Volta, rue du Temple and rue des Gravilliers.
Check out Mollé Pâtisserie for some sweet treats or hidden gem Chez Shen for an authentic meal!
Header photo: Lunar New Year Sortiraparis.com