The Parisian Guide to Finding Your 'QG': Your Go-To Hangout Spot

The N.2 Rule: Find Your "QG"

If you want to truly embody the Parisian way of life, you need to find your QG—short for quartier général(headquarters). This is your personal haven, a place you instinctively go to unwind, socialize, and feel a sense of belonging. The trick? It must feel slightly underground and effortlessly cool, yet remain intimate enough to feel like a well-kept secret.

A Selection of Carefully Curated Spots

A true Parisian doesn't rely on just one QG—they have a handful, each serving a specific purpose. You need at least:

One restaurant for casual dinners – A spot where the menu is comforting, the ambiance warm, and the staff know your name.
One brunch location – A charming café or hidden bistro where croissants are buttery, coffee is strong, and the vibe is effortlessly chic.
One bar for relaxed evenings – A place where you can sip wine, chat for hours, and let the night unfold naturally.
One stylish yet cozy spot – A speakeasy, a small jazz bar, or a dimly lit lounge where the playlist is as refined as the cocktails.

The Key Elements of a Good "QG"

To be considered a true QG, your go-to spot must check a few boxes: ✔ Not too crowded – If it’s constantly packed with tourists, it’s not special enough. ✔ Atmosphere matters – Whether it’s rustic, artsy, or elegant, it should have character. ✔ A sense of community – You recognize familiar faces, and the staff give a knowing nod when you walk in. ✔ Aesthetic appeal – It should be cute, stylish, or have an undeniable charm. ✔ Location is key – A QG must be near where you live or in a central area, not too far from your other friends, or cool enough to make the extra 20-minute commute worthwhile. Parisians, however, prefer their QG to be 10-15 minutes away by walk or bicycle, making it accessible yet exclusive enough to feel like a personal retreat. ✔ Not necessarily elegant or chic – While some QGlocations can be sophisticated, many Parisians opt for a rustic, relaxed bar with a decontracted ambiance when meeting up with friends. The goal is comfort and familiarity, rather than luxury or exclusivity.

The Tradition of the "QG" in Paris

This ritual is deeply ingrained in Parisian culture. Ernest Hemingway had La Closerie des Lilas, where he wrote and drank with fellow intellectuals. The Surrealists, including André Breton and Louis Aragon, gathered at Café Cyrano in Pigalle, transforming it into a hub of avant-garde ideas. Today, Parisians still cultivate their own QG, whether it's an old brasserie in Le Marais or a chic wine bar in the 11th arrondissement.

Finding Your "QG" in Hong Kong

Just because you're in Hong Kong doesn’t mean you can’t adopt this Parisian habit. The city is full of hidden gems waiting to become your personal sanctuary. Consider:

For casual dinners: Try La Cabane, a cozy wine bistro with an authentic French feel.
For brunches: Head to Louise, where the pastries and ambiance transport you straight to Paris.
For relaxed evenings: Corks offers a great selection of French wines and a charming atmosphere.
For a stylish yet intimate night: Discover a speakeasy like Foxglove, where classic jazz and dim lighting set the perfect mood.
For a lively, yet personal terrace experience: The small cafés on Peel Street or Elgin Street provide the perfect people-watching scene while keeping that special QG charm.

The True Parisian Secret

At the end of the day, your QG isn’t just about the place—it’s about the feeling. It’s where you share good food, unlimited conversation, and unforgettable moments with the right people. So whether you're in Paris or Hong Kong, the real magic lies in finding that special place that feels like yours.

At Hong Kong Je T'aime, we celebrate Hong Kong’s vibrant French Touch, bringing together lovers of French cuisine, fine wines, and festive traditions. Through our exclusive gatherings, we create moments that transport you straight to a Parisian evening—filled with laughter, good company, and the true essence of joie de vivre. Join us and raise a glass to French elegance, right here in Hong Kong!