A Showgirl's Guide To Paris
- Kalon Movement
- Apr 24
- 7 min read
Updated: Apr 28
Discover Paris through Team K’s fave cafes, restaurants, hangout spots, and more!
By Isabella Logue
Have you ever wondered what a Parisian showgirl does when she isn’t on stage? The glitz and glamor of cabarets like the Moulin Rouge or Lido de Paris take countless hours of unseen rehearsals. But when the dazzling dancers aren’t performing on stage or teaching Kalon Barre in our studio, where do they spend their time?
If you haven’t crossed paths with us yet, allow us to introduce ourselves—Team K is made up of an incredible group of Parisian and international showgirls and performers. Some are born-and-raised Parisians, while others are recent expats who’ve fallen head over heels for the City of Light.
What unites us? A passion for dance, fitness and that certain je ne sais quoi that makes Paris so magical. Each coach brings a unique background and flair to our Kalon Barre classes, creating a dynamic space where individuality shines in coach and client.
But we don't stop at the studio doors. Want to know where to grab the perfect post-barre coffee and glowing facial? Or where to sip cocktails and share small plates in a moody Parisian bistro? We got you covered.
At Kalon, it’s not just about sculpting your body like a showgirl—it’s about living like one, too.
Paris is filled with endless cafes, bistros, museums, and shopping. So step into the shoes of an off-duty showgirl and Kalon Barre coach and discover the city through Team K’s favorite hangout spots…
Coffee, Matcha, and Chai…Oh My!
One thing that a showgirl loves is a latte. Being a professional dancer and a Kalon coach requires a lot of energy, so sometimes a morning caffeine pick-me-up is necessary to kickstart the day. Grab a matcha, coffee, or chai at some of Team K’s favorite spots, many of which are just a short walk from the Kalon studio!
For a unique experience with experimental latte options and ceremonial grade matcha, check out Seamer Coffee Shop, located just a short 7-minute walk from the Kalon studio!
“I love their iced vanilla matcha latte! I love matcha, and this place ships in their matcha directly from Kyoto, Japan, so the quality is unmatched and tastes delicious!” says Cirque d’Hiver Bouglione showgirl, Lexi Nolan.
Located just a short four-minute walk from the Kalon studio is Emma Beaumont’s favorite post-class treat—a blondie cookie and almond cortado from Lactem!
“Lactem makes fresh cookies in-house and is always trying out different flavors, so it’s definitely worth multiple visits! The staff there is so lovely and always serves you coffee with a smile, plus the Blondie’s cookie dough cookie is iconic and debatably the best in Paris!”
Finding laptop-friendly cafes isn’t always easy, and as a full-time student and a Kalon coach, Emma’s favorite co-working space is Cafe Pigalle in the 9th arrondissement, which captures the eccentric spirit of Montmartre.
“Cafe Pigalle has amazing vibes, free wifi, lots of outlets, great coffee and pastries, and a super cozy space that you can really settle into.”
Jackie, a former New York City Rockette, likes a good chai latte to coffee. San Carlo cafe, located in Paris’s 2nd arrondissement, is a newly opened coffee shop with a cool-crowd vibe.
“San Carlo’s chai latte is everything! And homemade cookies? Yes please! If it’s sunny, I like to grab the bench outside and just vibe.”
L'Hôtel de l’Abbaye 10 Rue Cassette, 75006 Paris
Whenever Sophie, Kalon’s CEO and co-founder, needs a moment of peace, she likes to head to L'Hôtel de l’Abbaye in the 6th arrondissement. The hotel offers a peaceful garden lounge under a glass roof where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city to a quiet sanctuary.
“This hidden gem on the Rive Gauche offers a slow coffee, the sound of birds, and a fountain. It is pure calm in the middle of a huge city!”
Boulangerie, Sil Vous Plait!
Mamiche 45 Rue Condorcet, 75009 Paris
Mamiche bakery, located in the 9th arrondissement, is a favorite for both Nisha and Annabel. They offer artisanal baked goods, with their sourdough hand-kneaded by their bakers each day. They also specialise in Viennese puff pastries made by their in-house touriers.
“I love Mamiche bakery,” says Annabel, a former La Nouvelle Eve and current Lide de Paris showgirl. “They are known for their incredible babka, but whatever you choose is incredible. It’s definitely worth the queue! I recommend their Fleur d’Oranger Brioche. It’s on my walk home from Kalon studio, which is dangerously tempting!”
For a unique and authentic Brazilian chocolate dessert, check out Dengo, one of Zoe’s favorite shops. Located in the 6th and 18th arrondissements, Dengo offers savory gourmet hot chocolates and "quebra-quebra,” a Brazilian pastry.
“Dengo is an incredible Brazilian chocolate shop in Montmartre that is ethically produced. I love all their products, but also to stop in the store and enjoy a delicious hot chocolate,” says Zoe.
Time for a Bite
La Félicita 5 Parv. Alan Turing, 75013 Paris
If you’re looking for Italian food, head to Nisha’s favorite spot, La Félicita in the 13th arrondissement. In addition to the many tasty pizza and pasta options, the interior is La Félicita’s standout quality. The sunroof and greenery make you feel like you’re in an oasis during the daytime, but the mood lighting gives an air of romanticism as soon as the sun sets.
“It has a variety of food stations, cafes, wines, and cocktails. It has a co-working space during the day, and in the evening it offers dance and live music!”
Thai House
Close to the Kalon Studio in the 9th arrondissement is Annabel’s favorite spot to eat authentic Thai cuisine after a sweaty Kalon Barre class. When you enter, you feel like you’ve just been transported to Thailand. They have amazing prices for quality food, and lots of vegetarian-friendly dishes.
“My favorite dishes are the Tom Yam Koung to start, followed by Crevettes à la Mangue with sticky rice.”
La Compagnie 123 Av. de Wagram, 75017 Paris
If you’re looking for a yummy brunch spot, check out Jackie’s favorite, La Compagnie! Located in the 17th arrondissement, it offers classic French food and has an outdoor terrace—perfect for sunbathing on a warm Parisian afternoon!
“The Aussie in me still lives for brunch, and this place delivers. The eggs Benedict and carrot cake are my go-to picks!”
Cocktail O'Clock
Located in Montmartre is Hotel Particulier, which is Kalon Studio’s co-owner Colombe’s favorite place to grab a drink for date night. This hidden gem offers an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re not in Paris, but instead a cozy getaway.
Harry’s New York Bar 5 Rue Daunou, 75002 Paris
To experience a classic night in 1920s New York, head to Harry’s New York Bar. Located in the center of Paris, Zoe recommends the world-famous Harry’s New York Bar in the 2nd arrondissement for a classy night out.
“Their cocktails are worth the hype, and I dream of their French 75. It has a cozy, oak wood bar, talented bartenders, and even hot dogs to go along with your beverage!”
Nothing is more French than people-watching on an outdoor terrace with a glass of red wine. Jackie’s favorite spot to embrace the Parisian ritual is at La Palette in the Latin Quarter.
“Round up your crew for an apéro and join the cool French crowd at La Palette, which offers prime people-watching and that classic Parisian buzz.”
Just a short stroll from Kalon Studio, Sophie loves celebrating the end of a good day with an elegant cocktail, specifically a Precioso Porn Star, from the Terrass Hotel Rooftop in the 18th arrondissement.
“It has one of the best rooftop views in Paris, and watching the sunset over the city feels magical.”
Kick Back and Relax
Tuileries Gardens - 75001
Tuileries Garden is a staple of Parisian relaxation and sunbathing. Lexi frequents the garden to enjoy fresh air and the stunning views of the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.
If you’re looking for a lesser-known place to relax, Colombe suggests heading to La Grande Mosquée in the 5th arrondissement!
“It’s non-touristy and has an amazing and relaxing hammam.”
If you’re looking for a fun night of entertainment, Zoe suggests checking out a show at Théâtre de Champs Élysées!
“Not only is it a beautiful theater, but it's also great if you’re ever in the mood for an inexpensive experience. The tickets are quite reasonable, and you get to see world-class musicians and dancers!”
Another one of Zoe’s favorite places to spend her free time in Paris is the Hotel de la Marine in Place de la Concorde.
“It is one of my favorite museums in Paris! It has the flavor of Versailles without the extra commute. It is so gorgeous to wander through the old apartments and offices of the French naval officers!”
Treat Yourself
Skincare is a ritual for our co founder Sophie, and regular facials are her secret weapon to glowing skin, to erase away any signs of stress and fatigue.
She never misses a session with her friend, Caroline Auguste, and her magical Kobido technique for lifted and glowing skin.
For deep cleansing, LED and photorejuvenation, Estheclinic is Sophie’s go-to for the ultimate refresh.
If you’re looking to relieve tension in your face for a more relaxed and rejuvenating feeling, Jackie suggests booking a session at Facekult.
“It’s a facial massage that melts away all the tension from my face. I have an animated job and use my face a lot, so I tend to hold a lot of tension there. I walk out glowing every time!”
After getting her first pair of Nomasei boots, Sophie’s been completely hooked. Elegant, timeless, and comfortable—Nomasei shoes are a wardrobe staple. Next on Sophie’s list is a pair of sandals for summertime!
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