Parisian Markets are Heaven on Earth
Paris is teeming with amazing food and unbelievable wine, and besides the numerous bistros, markets are our favorite place to seek out new delectable meats and cheeses, incredible selection of fresh fish, bread, olive oil, and of course, vin.
Sometimes we shop at the market and head out to the park for a picnic. This trip we were staying by the beautiful Parc de la Villette, which being situated along a canal, was perfect for evening snacks and beverages. Other times we enjoying dining out in one of the many fabulous restaurants that are a part of various markets. We also make a point to seek out new markets in different neighborhoods every time we are in Paris, and this trip we were able to get to three new markets on our travels.
An Exquisite Market in the Marais
Marché des Enfants Rouges in the Marais has a storied history dating back to the 17th century, and is a treasure trove of culinary delights, cultural experiences, and a testament to the rich heritage of Paris.
Located on the corner of Rue de Bretagne and Rue Charlot, the market has a picturesque entrance down an small alley, and is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the street. The layout is perfect with multiple restaurants on perimeter, and plethora of stalls in the center, all exquisitely manicured to pull you in and hypnotize you into eating their food.
The market’s name, “Les Enfants Rouges,” translates to “The Red Children” in English, and its origins are somewhat mysterious. Some believe it refers to the red robes once worn by children in a nearby orphanage, while others suggest it might have been named after the red hues of the surrounding buildings.
The Historic Bastille Market
Obviously the Bastille Fortress from the 18th century is a big deal in French history. At the time, the fortress was a symbol of royal authority and oppression, which was coming to a head leading up to the French Revolution. After the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, the prison was torn down, and the area was redeveloped, giving birth to the area which would become the Bastille market of today.
The Bastille Market offers a plethora of fresh produce, a vast assortment of French cheeses, fresh bread, succulent fruits, and an array of meats and fish. Strolling through the vibrant stalls, visitors are greeted with a kaleidoscope of colors, aromas, and tastes that are distinctly French.
The market also boasts a remarkable selection of international delicacies, from Mediterranean olives to Middle Eastern spices, and their street food stalls are also a great reflection of the diverse offerings you can experience at this central market. Nothing beats a buckwheat crepe with gooey melty cheese. Divine.
A Flea Market that is Out of this World
We’ve been to some big flea markets in our day, but the biggest by far we’ve ever visited is the Saint-Ouen flea market in Paris. With an estimated 5 million visitors per year, the flea market is not only one of the largest and most frequented in the world, but it’s also one of the oldest markets for antique and second-hand goods dealers.
Officially the Saint-Ouen flea market is made up of separate markets, each market known for a specific type of merchandise. The Malik Market specialized in oriental rugs, exotic textiles, and Middle Eastern influences, while the Biron Market specializes in Fine art and collectibles. The Paul Bert Market is where you will find some amazing vintage fashion, and the Vernaison Market, the original portion of the Flea market, features an eclectic array of vintage furniture, retro fashion, classic books, and unique curiosities, like a martian space ship.
Visiting the Paris flea markets is not just about shopping; it’s about embarking on a sensory journey. The vibrant atmosphere, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee from nearby cafés, the sound of vendors haggling in French, and the sight of unique pieces from various eras coalesce to form an unforgettable experience.