I wrote about where Lily and I lunched recently, and I also feel compelled to share another place with you all, where we went for champagne. This must be the absolute best terrace in the entire city of Paris. At the hotel Raphael, they have a beautiful lofty terrace with the most stunning views in the city. On one side of the 7th floor terrace, you get an eyeful of the Arc de Triomphe and the Sacre Coeur, and on the other the Eiffel Tower glows at you from a short distance, and there is a delightful breeze that caresses you up at this height.

So as you can imagine, getting a table required a little bit of patience on this hot summer evening when the who’s who of French business and journalism sipped cooling cocktails while discussing business with partners, and ultra chic tourists and Parisians pouted and pursed over champagne.

Once we were seated with our husbands we noticed that we were at the best table of the whole patio, in the far end corner with the tower smack in front of us. We ordered our drinks and sat back to enjoy the view and the breeze.

Originally we were going to go to the Lounge 17 which is on the ground floor, but I had discovered the terrace while seeking my companions. Since I arrived before anyone I thought I would explore all options, and I am so glad I did! There is also a restaurant on the top floor terrace where you can enjoy elegant outdoor dining (weather permitting).

La Terrasse is open from 4pm to 11pm. Drinks are pricey, but then you are paying for the view. I consider it worth it once in a while, to treat yourself to something indulgent and opulent. Little luxuries like these are a great change in the daily routine.

I had a wonderful champagne cocktail with strawberry. So refreshing and fruity. Lily stayed true to classic elegance and ordered champagne.