Le Dokhan’s, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Outside Le Dokhan's, the detailed stonework, emboldened by striped awnings and wrought-iron balconies, confirms the Haussmannian pedigree of this erstwhile private mansion. Inside, past a foyer notable for its striking black-and-white tiling and green velvet settees, lies a lobby and lounge area that is, in a word, sumptuous. The inlaid wood floors, classic columns, heavily-ornamented ceiling moldings, decadent draperies and plush upholstered seating could make this place feel like the Empire Style on steroids; however, touches of whimsy keep it in check. The Lilliputian elevator is one example: It's upholstered in logo-covered canvas from vintage Louis Vuitton trunks. That may be a nod to the fashion crowd who appreciate Le Dokhan’s comparative quietude (and to-die-for Champagne bar). Armani has been known to book the whole hotel during Paris Fashion Week. Business travelers and sociable types also come to take advantage of the Salon Cheminée, a glorious gathering space adorned with art by Picasso and Matisse. 

Le Dokhan's occupies an elegant corner building in an exclusive, largely residential part of the lovely 16th arrondissement. This is not the city’s hippest ‘hood; however, proximity to the Palais des Congrès and the Champs Elysees make it a good choice for business travelers and retail fans respectively. For sightseers, the iconic Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe are both in walking distance; ditto for the gorgeous Jardins du Trocadéro (Trocadéro Gardens), where you’ll find the recently-renovated Musée de l'Homme and several other engaging museums. Since the hotel is within a seven-minute walk of three metro stations (Boissière, Victor Hugo, and Trocadéro), the rest of Paris is easily explored as well. 

• Four-minute walk to the Boissière metro station
• Seven-minute walk to Trocadéro Gardens
• 16-minute walk to the Arc de Triomphe
• 19-minute walk to the Eiffel Tower
• 20-minute walk to Palais des Congrès de Paris (14 minutes via public transport)
• 15 minutes to the Champs Elysees via public transport
• 16 minutes to the Bois de Boulogne via public transport
• 22-minute drive to Orly Airport (more with traffic)
• 26 minutes to the Louvre Museum via public transport
• 26 minutes to Musee d'Orsay via public transport
• 26 minutes to Gare Du Nord (Eurostar) via public transport
• 29-minute drive to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (more with traffic)

Interior designer Frédéric Méchiche continues the property's rich decor into the guest rooms, all of which are big on style but not necessarily on size. (The Classic and Deluxe versions, for example, are about 215 and 260 square-feet respectively, while the Business-class ones are approximately 300). Regardless of category, stark stripes dominate the decor, whether on the wallpaper or the King and Queen beds which are crowned with canopies. Traditional Toile de Juoy accents, patterned carpets and period-appropriate furnishings are typically added to the mix. The result is a bold, très chic take on the 19th-century. Yet modern conveniences -- including minibars, laptop safes, soundproof windows, flat-screen TVs with international channels, coffee/tea-making equipment and free Wi-Fi -- ensure guests don’t feel trapped in a time warp. The serene white Carrara marble bathrooms feature a walk-in shower or shower/tub combo, along with fluffy bathrobes and slippers. Upper tier options also have a sitting area, and many rooms have a private balcony -- some at the narrow “prow” of the hotel even have two. But only the Eiffel Suite, tucked in the attic and accessed by a separate stairwell, has a view of the fabled tower. This being France, smoking rooms are available on request. 

In terms of features, this hotel’s "pièce de résistance" is undoubtedly the Champagne bar, a candle-lit green-and-gold confection so opulent that it received a mention from "Architectural Digest." Simply called Le Dokhan's, the bar was the first of its kind in Paris and still tops bubbly lovers' list by pouring 200-plus varieties. Champagne cocktails, fine wines and small bites are also offered; tasting sessions can be organized, and a jazz session is hosted there monthly. Each morning, guests can order a full or Continental breakfast in the same setting for an added fee (room service is available, too). Lunch and dinner aren’t options, however, as there is no restaurant per se. 

Practical perks include a 24-hour front desk with concierge services and a multilingual staff; valet parking and laundry services, both offered for a price; and free Wi-Fi throughout. The hotel welcomes children, though the small room sizes may be prohibitive for parents; cribs (but not cots) can be provided and babysitting can be arranged on request. Those bringing their pooch to Paris are welcome, too: Small dogs are accepted for an extra charge.