Rue Jean Jacques Rousseau

The neighborhood is still called “Les Halles”, meaning the huge food market which has been feeding Paris until 1971. Because of this longstanding history (The Pinault Museum for instance is in fact the last conversion of the grain market built in the 1780s), there are many food-related stores in the area.

Those who survived the disappearing of the actual central food market are usually worth a stop. Here is a quick selection, just walking along the famous rue Montorgueil.

---

La Fermette – Cheese

Let’s be clear about this. There are at least three other cheese mongers we can name in the neighborhood, each of them with a great selection or a great specialty. La Fermette is the most central, and we’ve been going there for nearly two decades. The staff is friendly and will provide good advice, and believe us, the cheese is better than their english accent. And there is a cow on top of the entrance.
—- 86 rue Montorgueil 75002 Paris

---

Le repaire de Bacchus – Wine etc

Again, one out of many others, but lately it is out supplier of choice. Not only do they have a good selection of classics (Bordeaux, Burgundy) wines, but also wines from other regions, such as Bandol (definitely try a red Bandol if you have the opportunity), Languedoc, etc including “natural wines”. The Champagne choice is equally outstanding.
—- 88 rue Montorgueil 75002 Paris

---

Fou de patisserie – Pastries from chefs

The concept is simple: a selection of famous chefs x a selection of their iconic pastries. It changes every month, and it’s impossible not to find your perfect dessert.
—- 45 rue Montorgueil 75002 Paris

---

Check out the second Rue Montorgueil post.