Ruba Khoury is a Palestinian chef, raised in Dubai, trained in New York and Paris, and is now the owner of Parisian queer and lesbian-friendly bar Dirty Lemon.

Paris

"The whole idea was to create a space for women — the queer community, because I’m queer — that was inclusive and welcoming, where you can have a good drink with great music, good vibes and good food at the same time. Which is quite rare, especially for the queer community in Paris. It’s not just for the community but also to show the world that we can do it too, and have it just as nice as other establishments."

Dirty Lemon

"For good, down-to-earth, authentic home-style Japanese food, go to Chez Miki in the 2nd district. It’s woman-owned, a one-woman show in the kitchen, a very tiny place run by two women."

Chez Miki

"Le CENTQUATRE is an old factory that’s renovated into an edgy cultural center where they host exhibitions, artists and performances."

Le CENTQUATRE

"La REcyclerie is an urban farm and industrial café workshop. There are many things going on there. It’s a huge space, super fun."

La REcyclerie

"Aujourd’hui Demain is the best vegan brunch spot, and it’s in the middle of a vegan grocery store that sells vegan clothing. I think it’s very unique in Paris."

Aujourd’hui Demain

"Musée de la Vie Romantique is a free museum — it’s super tiny, like bite-sized. It’s perfect if you’re like me who gets bored after half an hour. Go through the museum and then don’t miss the café in the garden, it’s beautiful."

Musée de la Vie Romantique

"If you happen to be in the 12th district, definitely take a walk on the Coulée Verte. It’s actually what inspired the New York High Line. It’s a green space on top of the viaduct in the 12th, and if you walk all the way to the end, past the bridge and keep walking, you’ll end up in a forest in the middle of the city. It’s beautiful."

Coulée verte René-Dumont

"Le Royal China is definitely the best dim sum in town. You go in and you feel like you’re in Chinatown in New York City. It’s super delicious and fresh, definitely an experience."

Le Royal China