Marché des Enfants Rouges

One of the oldest market buildings in the world the Marche des Enfants Rouges fell into disrepair in the middle of the last century, but has now been revitalized as a shopping and dining location for those in the neighborhood. Drop into pick up supplies for a picnic, or eat at one of the many food establishments with the market and select from a range of different ethnic styles and reflects the multi-cultural nature of Paris.

History

Established in 1777 in the site of a former orphanage it takes its name from the red gowns worn by the children in care at that time. Falling into disrepair in the beginning of the 20th century it closed during the 1980s and lay disused.

However following a campaign by the residents of Le Marais, the historic district in which it falls, the market was renovated and reopened in its current form in the year 2000.  Since then it has flourished by providing a much needed lunch establishment for residents of the area.

Shops

There are florists in the market with grand displays of both cut and potted flowers available giving a vibrant colorful and fragrant backdrop to the many other shops in the market.

A photography studio lets you look at historic photographs, or have a future historic photograph taken of yourself and your family right here in the market.

Buy organic vegetables, see the term "bio" which is short for the French word meaning organic, and have supplies to eat a picnic in a nearby park such as Square Casimir Perree which is just around the corner. Or pictured here fresh fish from the fishmonger.

Food

Different culinary specialties are served and everyone can enjoy and Moroccan cuisine, Lebanese, or Portuguese. The smaller stalls serve to shared tables and you and your guests can enjoy dishes from multiple cuisines at the same time.  The larger cafe and restaurants however have their own private tables and at those only their own food may be consumed.

An organic Burger and Fries stand offers just that, with little option except for the type of cheese on the meat it is 10 euro for an excellent slow food French version of a fast food.

To the left side of the market you will find In Taeko which is a Japanese specialists offering maki, meatballs and traditional sushui recipes based on the styles from their home island of Kyushu. And of course the ever popular Bento boxes make for great takeaway meals.

Tagine and couscous from Morocco are fragrant and freshly made and remind one of the connection between France and north African which has been historically one way but now goes two way with a sharing of love of foods. Try a Pastilla au Poulet, a crispy pastry parcel filled with lightly spiced tender chicken, all served with chopped salad of the freshest vegetables.

Epicerie Fine Italienne offers traditional Italian cured meats such as Salame Milanese or some Pancetta, sauces, a range of dried pastas and bread sticks. And during the festive season and the end of the year it is a great place to come and get the Panatone, the Italian Christmas bread light in texture but rich with candid fruits.

Opening times

The market is open Tuesday until Thursday from 9 until 2 and then from 4 until 8pm. While on Fridays and Saturdays it does not close in the afternoon but stays open from 9 until 8pm. On Sundays it operates only until after lunch time and closes around 2pm.  On Monday the whole market is closed.