With Paris’ Grand Hotel Cayré reopening, our city has another hotel in a lovely period building for visitors to enjoy.
But much more than that. The historical renovation means it’s a new cultural locale – a tribute to the artistic and literary heyday of Paris in the 1920s.
A brand-new group of hotels
Paris is internationally famous for its beautiful hotels, and the latest is something rather special.
Set in the heart of the Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin neighborhood in the 7 th arrondissement (district), it’s close to the well-known rue du Bac – and the 56Paris office.
The Grand Hotel Cayré is the latest opening for new urban hotel group Miiro. With another just opened in Barcelona, they’re planning more hotels in other major European cities including London and Vienna.
Their ethos promises individually-designed hotels that are “inspired by the surrounding neighborhood, from the stories they tell, to the people that live there.”
Founded in the Roaring Twenties
Now over a century old, the original Hotel Cayré first opened in 1920 by Auguste Cayré, a businessman and visionary who captured the allure of Paris during the so-called ‘Roaring Twenties.’
Reflecting the exuberant Art Deco style of the time, the building has a stone façade with a glass marquee, and ornately-decorated windows with balconies.
The hotel attracted many notable guests, including the esteemed French author André Gide. Even Irish literary icon James Joyce settled just across the street – where he completed Ulysses, his acclaimed masterpiece. Edith Wharton, Picasso and Jean Cocteau also called it home.
Throughout its illustrious past, the Grand Hotel Cayré witnessed the dramatic shifts of history.
Seized by the German secret services during World War II – a fate which also befell the nearby Lutetia Hotel – it later became a refuge during the Liberation, and went on to become home to a new generation of artists and intellectuals.
The Paris’ Grand Hotel Cayré reopening in 2024
Fast forward to 2024.
The Paris’ Grand Hotel Cayré reopening has taken over a year of intense renovation and restoration work.
Now reimagined, the stunning seven-story property is a celebration of the vibrant heritage of its neighborhood history.
Upon entering, you’re welcomed by a majestic glass canopy that evokes a sense of grandeur. The interior, designed by British architect Michaelis Boyd, pays homage to the Roaring Twenties with luxurious touches such as embroidered fabrics, vintage mirrors and fringed lamps.
The hotel now features 123 thoughtfully-appointed rooms – including two spectacular suites with views of the Eiffel Tower. They’re all decorated with rich materials such as leather, wood and marble, creating a cozy yet elegant ambiance.
Renowned Parisian art advisor and curator Gilbert Kann consulted on the Collector's Suite, making it an ideal choice for art aficionados.
Throughout the hotel, a curated collection of vintage posters, sheet music and literary memorabilia, sourced from local antique shops and flea markets, is a nostalgic nod to the district’s artistic and literary heritage.
A selection of classic literature, penned by authors who stayed at the hotel, are also available to read and borrow, so guests can really delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Parisian history.
New dining experiences
It’s not just about a new place for visitors to stay. Dining at the Grand Hotel Cayré promises to be a celebration of flavors and creativity – with a new brasserie and speakeasy-style bar.
The 90-seat brasserie, Annette, is the brainchild of Bruno Brangea, an acclaimed former executive chef of legendary chef Alain Ducasse. Brangea’s creations reflect traditional bistro-style cuisine, while adding unique and innovative touches with dishes such as duck fillet with honey, pâté en croute and mimosa eggs with watercress.
In a celebration of its neighborhood roots, the hotel has also formed partnerships with local food artisans and businesses. This means delicacies such as truffled brie, smoked salmon and powdered truffles are all sourced locally, to showcase the best of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area.
Reached via a hidden entrance on Rue du Bac, the hotel’s own speakeasy bar, the Officine Bac, has an exclusive feel.
Here the music playlist mixes jazz with rock, while the cocktail menu features many herbal accents – another tribute to the drinks popular during the Roaring Twenties.
Get in touch with 56Paris
In the Grand Hôtel Cayré, Miiro have created more than just a hotel – they’ve reimagined a Parisian institution that embraces its past, while looking toward the future.
If you would like to get in touch with the property experts at 56Paris, you can contact the team here.
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