The Routines issue
Poilâne, 91530 Le Marais, Sophie Carbonari Skincare, Vivant 2, MORE
ABOUT FOUND • Routines
FOUND Routines chronicle how notable Paris area residents — across industries, neighborhoods, and interests — spend their days and nights, from the first meeting to the final nightcap or weekend getaway.
The best routines are vibrant snapshots, full of personality, useful intel, and actionable recommendations. Collectively, they paint a picture of lives well spent in and around the city.
Know someone who would make a great FOUND Routine? Hit reply or drop us a line at found@foundparis.com.
WORK • Friday Routine
Family affair
APOLLONIA POILÂNE • baker and CEO • Poilâne
Neighborhood you live and work in in: Saint Germain des Prés
It’s Friday morning. What’s the scene at your workplace?
It’s the earlier hours of the day, as I turn into Rue du Cherche-Midi, the delicious smell of the bakery infusing the air. Could you think of a better way to draw an end to your week? I typically enter the store to say hello to each person on the team working that morning.
Poilâne was started by my grandfather, Pierre Poilâne, back in 1932. Over the years, we’ve gained recognition in our neighborhood and beyond. For now, we’re getting our orders ready to serve our clients eager to have a croissant on their way to school, a whole loaf to escape the city for the weekend, or the lovers of our ‘pâtisseries boulangères,’ like our apple tart. My office is just above the bakery, so the smells of the different productions from our wood-fired oven act like a clock throughout the day.
What’s on the agenda for today?
Today, my focus is two-fold: wrapping up the winter season while simultaneously fine-tuning our spring and summer to come. I’m guiding a visit of our bakehouse to friends of friends in town. I love to share how each baker hand-shapes each loaf and is responsible for their entire batch’s production, furthering the love and care we put into our craft.
Any restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
I’ll have lunch or dinner at Sauvage on Rue du Cherche-Midi, for a French local and seasonal meal. Or Le Cherche Midi (also on Rue du Cherche-Midi) for a fresh pasta fix. For apéro, I could splurge at Hotel Lutetia with live music or a beer from the Café de Flore’s tap with a Welsh rarebit if the weather is cold enough.
How about a little leisure or culture?
I’m a cyclist on weekends and tend to go out on Sunday mornings with friends. When we go all out, we may end up at Le Barn for a mid-morning coffee before returning to Paris. I also take my dog for a walk in Champs de Mars or Les Tuileries so we both get our ‘sorties’ for the weekend. And I love to visit an exhibit, galleries, or see a show. I recently went to the Musée Maillol, which presented the extraordinary work of Nadiah Léger. And I loved the retrospective of the centennial Galerie Larock-Granoff.
I’ve also taken my nephew to a great experiential place for children at the back of the Chantelivre bookstore. It’s an indoor playground featuring books from their collection. Honestly, it’s just as much fun for an adult as it is for a child.
Any weekend getaways?
While Alexandre Gauthier’s fine dining restaurant (La Grenouillère, close to Montreuil-sur-Mer in Pas-de-Calais) was flooded last year, his sister restaurants and rooms offer just as delicious an escape from Paris.
What was your last great vacation?
I went to Cancale in Bretagne, West of France, where I would recommend the area ‘Pays Malouin’ at large — the Maisons de Bricourt, more specifically. If you have the time, and the season and weather are right, I would go to the nature-focused Îles Chausey for the day.
What’s a recent big-ticket purchase you love?
My neighbor Lola makes custom-made bomber jackets, which have been a dream since I slipped into one of her Cafe de Flore editions.
Photo credit: Manuel Obadia-Wills.
–28/03/25
WORK • Friday Routine
Spring blossoms
VICTOIRE DE POURTALÈS • owner/co-founder • 91530 Le Marais
Neighborhoods you work in: Le Marais/Essonne
It’s Thursday morning. What’s the scene at your workplace?
On Fridays, I work on our art farm, 91530 Le Marais, located less than 50 km from Paris in the lush countryside. As spring arrives, I roll into the weekend windows wide open, sunlight pouring in, and the scent of blossoms in the air. The farm is a space dedicated to exploring life in all its forms — home to exhibitions, agricultural research, and an artist residency. It's where art and nature meet.
What’s on the agenda for today?
Today we’re busy preparing for the upcoming exhibition by Adelaide Cioni, an artist we've been working with for the past three years. Her show opens on April 26, and we’re so excited to share her work with the public. It’s a vibrant, thoughtful project that brings together textile, drawing, and a sense of playful rhythm.
Any restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
The area is full of nice places we get to go to for various events. We’ll have lunch in Dourdan — famous for its medieval castle — at the restaurant La Table de Blanche, and will go for a nice walk in the forest. I like to go visit my chef friend James Henry at Le Doyenné. I also like to go to Le Barn for a massage, or the Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay.
How about a little leisure or culture?
I’ll likely head out for a long walk through the nearby parks and forest trails around the farm — springtime makes everything feel alive. For culture, we love visiting the exhibitions and concerts at the Château de Chamarande. Recently, we hosted a magical performance by the incredible cellist Bruno Philippe amidst the artworks of artist Edgar Sarin.
Any weekend getaways?
Absolutely! No need to fly when the Forest of Fontainebleau is just a short drive away — it’s lush, grand, and endlessly inspiring. For something a bit further, we love visiting Le Cyclop by Niki de Saint Phalle or Jean Cocteau’s house. And when a birthday calls for something special, Venice is a favorite. We were just there for my husband’s birthday, and saw a stunning exhibition made entirely from hemp. The Italian breeze was the perfect gift.
What was your last great vacation?
Argentina. We explored the country on horseback with our children — a wild, unforgettable adventure across the country. We went to the pampa close to Buenos Aires to explore nature with the gauchos and after had some meetings in Buenos Aires with artists and curators. After that we decided to go to the sea and went to José Ignacio, Uruguay, to see different art residencies and the piece by James Turrell which was a real experience. We loved the restaurant Francis Mallmann - El Garzón.
What store or service do you always recommend?
Weldom! It’s my go-to for tools and home essentials — I could spend hours there.
Where are you donating your time or money?
To the farm, to the artists, and to culture. Supporting creative practices — whether through time, space, or resources — is at the heart of everything we do at 91530 Le Marais.
–25/04/25
WORK • Friday Routine
Face forward
SOPHIE CARBONARI • CEO • Sophie Carbonari Skincare
Neighborhood you live in: Oberkampf (11th arr)
Neighborhood you work in: Jardin du Palais Royal (1st arr)
It’s Friday afternoon. How are you rolling into the weekend?
I start my morning early with a meeting at artisanal coffee shop and roaster The Beans on Fire in the 11th. I take time to sit with my notebook, writing down thoughts, plans, and inspirations for the day ahead. From there, I walk toward the vibrant Marché d'Aligre, letting the energy of the market set a lively tone. I settle in at Chez Charlette, a welcoming café where I can work quietly while observing the gentle flow of Parisian life.
Lunch is at Le Square Trousseau, a beautiful place to enjoy a moment of calm in the middle of the city. In the afternoon, I take a break by the river — a necessary pause to recharge — and stop by Beaubourg or wander into a gallery in Le Marais to reconnect with art and fresh perspectives. As the week winds down, I love to cross the Jardin du Palais Royal on foot — it’s a moment to breathe. I usually head straight for a glass of wine at Verjus Bar à Vins, where I start planning the weekend with friends.
What’s on the agenda for today?
Each morning, I begin by refreshing my skin with a fine mist of Evian facial spray, awakening and hydrating my complexion. I follow this with a generous application of Rohto Mentholatum's Lotion Premium Hada Labo Gokujyun, a deeply moisturizing essence that preps my skin. Next, I smooth on The S Serum by Sophie Carbonari — a concentrated formula that brings an immediate glow and firmness to my face. To lock in moisture and nourish my skin, I massage in my own custom blend of precious oils, creating a spa-like moment that feels both restorative and indulgent.
Before heading out, I complete my routine with a layer of SPF 50+++ from Korean skincare brand Benton, to shield my skin from the sun. A sweep of mascara and a touch of Glossier highlighter add the perfect finishing touches, giving me a fresh, luminous look to carry into the day. After my morning routine, I head toward my studio near Palais Royal. It’s a little ritual: a first takeaway coffee at Caféinoman on Rue Saint-Maur, then another stop at Calibré on Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Once I reach the studio, I swap into work shoes and prepare to welcome my first client.
My studio is perched just above a design gallery on the Jardin du Palais Royal, surrounded by remarkable pieces of contemporary art. It's a setting that constantly inspires — a space where creativity and elegance meet. I'm a devoted admirer of Diptyque candles and Perfumer H fragrances, both of which subtly perfume the studio, adding layers of warmth and sophistication. The design of the space is intentionally minimal, allowing every object — and the surrounding garden — to breathe. The garden itself feels like a living sculpture, an ever-evolving creation that becomes part of the studio’s serene atmosphere. It’s a peaceful, contemplative context that grounds and elevates my daily work. My morning is starting off with a soin sur-mesure, a custom facial for one of my regulars, a Parisian actress who trusts me to refine and restore her glow.
Any restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
For lunch during the week, you’ll often find me at my go-to spots like Il Fico, Takara, and Cibus. After hours, dinner is a real treat: I love Jean-François Piège’s Le Grand Restaurant, Langosteria at Cheval Blanc Paris, and Caviar Kaspia. The weekend calls for neighborhood gems like L'Ami Pierre or Le Dauphin.
How about a little leisure or culture?
I always carve out time for culture. Some of my favorite escapes are Bourse de Commerce — Pinault Collection, Beaubourg, and the Musée d'Orsay — each offering their own kind of magic.
Any weekend getaways?
If I can sneak away, Champagne or the painters’ village of Barbizon (at the edge of the Fontainebleau forest) are my preferred destinations — both just close enough to feel like a proper escape, yet worlds away from Parisian pace. Most recently in Champagne, I ate at Au Carillon Gourmand and did a Champagne tasting at iconic maison Ruinard.
What’s a recent big-ticket purchase you love?
Tickets to the Opéra Royal at Château de Versailles — it’s an unforgettable experience.
What store or service do you always recommend?
Julhès is an absolute must for anyone who loves beautiful, thoughtfully sourced products. I love picking up everything from cheese to dessert at the specialty food shop.
–16/05/25
WORK • Friday Routine
Alsatian terroir
PIERRE BERTHIER • sommelier • Vivant 2
Neighborhood you work in: 10th arr
Neighborhood you live in: 18th arr
It’s Friday morning. What’s the scene at your workplace?
I work as a sommelier at Vivant 2. My shift usually starts in the early afternoon. When I arrive, the team is already blasting Italo-disco, a mix of Pino D'Angiò and Mina. The atmosphere is energetic and friendly — there are just six of us. We have four locations on the same street — Vivant 2, Déviant, Camino, Collier de la Reine — so it’s always buzzing with activity. We often pop over to one of the other locations for a coffee, and the vibe is relaxed and playful. At 530p, we share a staff meal, and the place suddenly becomes very quiet. We turn off the music, and some people take a quick nap. The only sound is the constant hum of the fridges. At 6p, we turn the music back on, light the candles, and the evening begins.
What’s on the agenda for today?
Outside of service, I focus on building relationships with winemakers, engaging with them and sharing their stories with other wine venues in Paris. My primary focus is on Alsace, as that's where I'm from, and where my wine culture originates. I also work on organizing the next edition of the wine fair I host with David Neilson in Strasbourg, Phare Ô Vins at the Phare Citadelle. The next one will be October 2025. It's a lot of back-and-forth with winemakers, inviting chefs to cook for the event, and coordinating with the venue’s staff to organize everything. It’s a job rooted in passion and relationships — one that involves taking time to connect with industry professionals, recommend great restaurants, taste wines, and meet new people.
Any restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
Tonight, I plan to have a drink at Les Vins du Matin, probably with a piece of blue cheese, some smoked harissa, and a pet nat by Vanessa Letort from Sons of Wine. I might also stop by Déviant; there's a bottle I've had my eye on for a while — a 2015 blend of Riesling, Barbera, Picpoul, Cortes, Carignan, and Grenache Gris by Ruth Levandinsky. I can already picture enjoying a glass of it with their Bouchée à la Reine. I’m craving the warmth and comfort of puff pastry and cheese.
How about a little leisure or culture?
I’m a huge jazz fan and really enjoy the concerts at New Morning. I’m looking forward to seeing Billie Cohan perform — he’s an incredible jazz drummer. The venue is located on Rue des Petites Écuries, just a few doors down from Vivant 2. It’s an intimate space with a top-quality sound system — well thought out, and very precise. The programming focuses on hip hop, jazz, and indie music.
Afterward, I’ll likely find myself at a PMU for a Jupiler draft — I'm still a pilsner drinker at heart. I also enjoy browsing for vinyl at Rock Bottles. They have an excellent selection of movie soundtracks, including works by François de Roubaix and Michel Legrand. A good soundtrack on vinyl, paired with a glass of wine, is one of life’s little pleasures.
Any weekend getaways?
I spend all my weekends in Alsace, as that’s where I feel a deep connection to the land. I have a few parcels in Obernai, and it’s always a joy to care for them. I also have a pied-à-terre in Strasbourg, and my love for both Paris and Strasbourg — along with the Piémont des Vosges — keeps me coming back every weekend. When I arrive at the train station, I stop by Le Bardu (Cosmos) for a Météor on tap. I have an apéro at Jaja, dinner at Le Pont Corbeau, and then return to Le Bardu.
What was your last great vacation?
When I was living in Strasbourg, Paris was my go-to holiday destination. I'm still split between the two cities. Every summer, though, I spend 10 to 15 days in Arles with my brother. We rent a mas, live to the rhythm of the cicadas, and dine out every night. Our usuals are Chardon, they host chefs in residency, so the menu changes every year; Inari by Céline Pham, and a memorable aïoli at Chapeau de Paille in Aix-en-Provence, paired with old vintages from Henri Milan. It’s also a great opportunity to visit Anthony Duchêne in Marseille, where he takes me to La Passarelle for wine and to hunt for vinyl records.
What’s a recent big-ticket purchase you love?
A trench coat I thrifted near République. It pairs nicely with movie soundtracks and the Grands Boulevards of Paris.
What store or service do you always recommend?
Au Fil du Vin Libre in Strasbourg is, without hesitation, the best wine shop ever. I often pick up some wine there before heading home to cook.
–30/05/25