The location, between the opera house and the Louvre, "is superb" at this 18th-century mansion where the staff are "kind, gracious, and friendly." Light-yellow rooms with thick duvets, chandeliers, and crown moldings "are charming and preserve the historical details." Michel Roth turns out contemporary takes on Escoffier-inspired classics at L'Espadon; a raspberry martini is poured at the Bar Hemingway.
(159 rooms)
Also featured on the: Gold List for 2005, Gold List for 2006, Gold List for 2007, Gold List for 2008, Gold List for 2009, Gold List for 2011