Playtime

If you can’t escape the city for the seaside on a whim, Playtime might be your second best bet, comprising as it does a bar, a restaurant AND a pool on one charming péniche (or houseboat). Moored on the Quai d’Austerlitz, Playtime’s theme is more water pistols than anything more kinky, making it a fun and easy-going place to hang out.

The service might not always be up to much but there’s a pleasing range of cocktails (we enjoyed a sprightly vanilla and vodka concoction, €10), though the charcuterie board we tried was underwhelming. In sum, come to Playtime for the pool party, not the snacks, and you’ll find it’s the perfect summer playground.