Maslow, the vegetarian restaurant located in a downtown high-rise overlooking the Seine, would never dream of closing, given its proximity to the Olympic Stadium. But the decision comes with uncertainty. “We're staying positive because it gives us an incredible energy boost, but we're a little worried about how hard it will be for our staff to go to work,” says Mehdi Fabri, executive chef and co-owner.
Commuting ranks high on companies' list of concerns, but locals have faced similar commuter obstacles before: In 2019, trains across France and public transport in Paris were severely disrupted for nearly two months during nationwide strikes calling for pension reforms, forcing workers to walk or bike long distances.
André Terrail, owner of La Tour d'Argent, a Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the Seine, doesn't expect commuting to be too complicated during the Olympics, but he acknowledges that such challenges are the price of doing business in Paris in general. “It will be complicated. We'll all be running around a lot. But it'll also be great,” he says. “If other host cities have found a solution, we'll do it too.”
Ethelia Hananoba, co-owner and sommelier of contemporary French restaurant Commis, is perhaps most enthusiastic about the coming summer, so much so that she will be open seven days a week for three weeks, until Aug. 10. “This is one of the biggest events in Paris' history, and we are here as part of the welcoming committee,” she said.
The scaled-down opening ceremony on the Seine has provided some respite for the bouquinistes, second-hand bookshops that line the riverside, many of which plan to remain open. Shoppers can also shop at department stores such as Galeries Lafayette, Printemps and Le Bon Marché. For those looking for something more unconventional, the Saint-Ouen flea market will open as usual, offering antiques and vintage clothing.
