Hi. My boyfriend is turning 31 and we'll be in Paris for the weekend. I'm trying to think of something fun to do for his birthday but have never been to Paris before. He loves great food and good beer. He isn't into typical tourist destinations. He love music and the arts and is pretty trendy. If anyone has any ideas or tips that would be great. Thank you!

My one birthday trip to Paris was quite unusual. The Metro went on strike, leaving me seemingly miles from a retaurant.

Then it poured rain for about 3-4 solid hours. I finally found a place to eat, and commandeered a cab to get back to my hotel.

It's not a birthday I would forget.

Kind of late to be planning something special, but you could try just bar-hopping along rue Oberkampf in the 11th arr. Lots of clubs, some with music,lots of people. Basically, get out at Parmentier metro and walk east.

Here is a photo report on the area that mr kerouac posted on here, it will give you an idea

I'd say the 11th, too. Here's kerouac's post on the Oberkampf area nightlife:
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...-oberkampf.cfm

I believe he also wrote a post about the street in that area that has a lot of terrific street art, but I can't seem to find it...

Here's another of his that might fit:
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...d-in-paris.cfm

If you are adventurous, have dinner somewhere in Belleville (Chinese or Maghrebi food) and then go to the Flèche d'Or, which is quite cutting edge trendy. http://www.flechedor.fr/

Take kerouac's suggestion...he lives in Paris and always shows us the most interesting, non-touristy stuff in and around Paris! Whatever he says, do it!