Le Paradis Latin: A Paris Cabaret
Walking past in the middle of the day, you might never notice this switched-off sign or neon-less exterior tucked away on 28 Rue de Cardinal Lemoine on an unobtrusive street just near Paris’ student district. Return at night, though, and it beckons like a beacon to curious passersby.
But, whatever does it mean?! Could it be…. Paradis in Paris?
The cabernet start flowing just as soon as you sit down, and an incredible three-course meal comes shortly after. Whether fois gras or salmon, sliced duck breast or Chateaubriand, no matter which you choose it all looked spectacular.
All the while a made-up young man keeps the crowd entertained and exuberant with his ebullient ribaldry. Equal parts offensive and amusing, the laughs grow louder as glasses get lighter.
And then? And then it is time to begin! Words can perhaps describe it in detail, but sadly photos cannot – I along with all the other visitors was asked to refrain from photography during the show itself. (A request I mostly honored.)
Of all I might have shown you from the several hour show, there’s only one thing I can: the cancan.
This traditional French favorite, which actually has its origins in the music halls of Montparnasse in Paris, is the least salacious things you’ll see at the Paradis Latin. High-energy and highly photogenic, though, it too will stick in your mind.
The cabaret show by itself would have been an interesting experience.
But after a dinner like that and with flowing champagne?
It was a little bit like, well… Paradise.
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I visited the ‘Paradis Latin’ while working as a photographer with GetYourGuide. I have no idea how ‘authentic’ this was as far as Cabarets go but it was certainly a fun and, dare I say, titillating experience. The show with dinner was absolutely delicious, but they also offer a champagne only version (its a hard life out there!) for about $120 less. Regardless of which of the two you choose, let me suggest choosing a hotel nearby in the Latin Quarter to ease your trip home after all that bubbly!
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