Marché Enfants Rouges is located on rue de Bretagne in the Marais section of Paris, which was once the Jewish quarter and is now a very happening scene. Enfants Rouges is the only regularly occurring market in the Marais, so it attracts a lot of locals as well as many travelers. It is the oldest covered food market in Paris. “Enfants Rouges” refers to the orphanage that once stood at the site, and whose children were clothed in red garments to identify them. This market was almost demolished in the 1980s, but local residents rallied to save it.
Enfants Rouges covered food market
It’s all too easy to miss this market, so pay close attention as you walk along rue de Bretagne. Look for the gate and archway that indicate the entrance.
Easy to miss this market–look for the gate
It’s not the most beautiful of Paris’s covered markets with its unattractive corrugated metal roofing. And yet, once inside the market there are many good reasons to stay. The ethnic food stalls are outstanding. You can find tagines, kebabs, couscous, yakitori, crêpes, and more. A melting pot of Moroccan, Lebanese, North African, Italian stands offer freshly cooked, ready-to-eat food.
Moroccan traiteur at Marché des Enfants Rouges
Not surprising then that this market is a popular spot for brunch. There are several seating areas, but be aware that most vendors have assigned tables so to sit at a spot they’ll expect you’ll have bought your food from them. Just ask if you’re not sure.
Cozy seating at Enfants Rouges
And if no seating can be found, then rest assured that the lovely Square du Temple is only a short stroll away for a picnic spot.
Besides a wide array of ethnic foods, Enfants Rouges also offers the traditional market fare: cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, and more. Several interesting shops, including one that specializes in olive oils, line the edges. And don’t miss the wine bar tucked in the back corner. Now do you see why this market ranks up there as one of my favorites?
Flower stall at Enfants Rouges market
Details:
Le Marché des Enfants Rouges
39, rue de Bretagne, 3rd arr.
closest Métro stops: Temple, Filles du Calvaire
Tuesday to Saturday 8:30 am to 1 pm, 4 pm to 7:30 pm
Friday and Saturday 8:30 am to 8 pm; Sunday 8:30 am to 2 pm
(See p. 50 in Markets of Paris, 2nd ed.)
View Larger Map
Related Links:
Fun in the Marais along Rue de Bretagne
7 of the Best Covered Markets in Paris
6 comments. Leave new
Yes, I’ve been there, love that neighborhood. Its not the touristed part of the Marais
Hi David. I agree–it’s a wonderful neighborhood. That part of the Marais is becoming more touristy, although the Enfants-Rouges covered market remains mostly unchanged. Thanks for your comment! ~Marjorie
My wife and I will be staying in an apt.very near Enfants-Rouge next week for a few weeks.Could you offer any suggestions about the neighborhood that was of special interest to you? It looks like a very nice area to us and we have done a little homework but would be interested in hearing anything from a person who has visited this special area. Thank you in advance Marjorie
Lucky you! It’s a great area. recommend going to the covered market Enfants-Rouges. And also checking out some of the spots mentioned in this post Fun in the Marais. Wishing you a great trip.
Yes I have read most of your posts and they are excellent!Thanks for the well wishes Marjorie.We also read how you love Boston. We live outside of the city but go there frequently and love it too!Thanks again..
Yes, Boston is near to my heart and my home. Glad to hear it’s the same for you. Thanks for being in touch and for your kind words. ~Marjorie