While this lovely fishing village has managed to preserve its old-school charm, there is always something new to entertain the international jetset that refuses to find a better destination for its summer shenanigans. Yes, the young Russians will keep on poppin’ shampanskoye at Nikki Beach and the bejeweled yacht owners will continue to devour le loup grillé at Club 55, but, this year, buzz about Saint-Tropez is hovering over Micasa, the new sushi bar by owned by Regis Rombi, formerly of Inside. Located across from Papagayo, one of Saint-Tropez’s notorious nightclubs, Micasa is bound to become a required stop for all kinds of night creatures. For your lodging needs, turn to the Muse Hôtel de Luxe, the new address for luxury hospitality set to open in June.
Making sense of the labyrinth of local shops stuffed to the max with summer’s fashions is so 2009. This summer is all about customized attention. Noemie K (011.33.6.20.65.15.01), a renowned personal shopper and stylist to European celebrities, will help you navigate the treacherous waters of boutique hopping and price negotiating. This year, her heart is set on vintage treasures to be found in the newly opened Blanc Bleu located on Place des Lices (not to be confused with a boutique by the same name on Quai Jean Jaurès). Leave it to Noemie to negotiate the best price for that vintage croc Birkin you’ve been eyeing.
Although Saint-Tropez is not known for three-Michelin-star-quality dining, Auberge de l’Oumède is as close to culinary perfection as you will get. Known for garnering religious-like devotion from French foodies (yet largely unknown to the foreigners), this iconic restaurant continues to draw huge crowds of worshipers, despite a hefty price tag. For a less ostentatious showing of the best regional cooking and a tarte au citron meringuée that rivals those made by the greatest French bakers, check out Le Mignon, a meager waterfront shack by the otherwise extravagant standards of the area. Le Mignon has been around for as long as Brigitte Bardot, but because of its hidden location, this favorite among locals is the most un-touristy destination in Saint-Tropez. To find this gem, follow Plage de Pampelonne to the very end of Ramatuelle. Just don’t tell the owners we sent you; they are not big on out-of-towners.
