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 second selection, just walking along the famous rue Montorgueil, after the initial publication.

Stohrer – Pastries and catering

Stohrer has been around a very long time. When the French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau lived next door, it is likely that he witnessed the inception of the famous pastry store, back in 1730. There is a long tradition of Baba au Rhum (it is said that it was invented there, but there are controversies about this), but also many other classic patisseries. You will also find good quality catering food. And when Queen Elisabeth visited the area, on her 2004 State visit, guess what was the only store she stopped-by? (in-store hint … many souvenir post-cards for sale).
—- 51 rue Montorgueil 75002 Paris

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Le Palais du Fruit – Veggies & fruits

A few steps up from Stohrer, the nearest has-it-all of produce. For top quality bio selection, you need to walk up to the rue du Nil (+5mn). For a quick refill of oranges for your morning juicer, that’s the place. And also a good selection of tropical fruits, which will never reach the rue du Nil stalls.
Note – when the queue there is too long, there is an alternative next to the pharmacy, another 50m up the street.
—- 62-74 rue Montorgueil 75002 Paris

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Mariage Frêres – All the teas

Another institution, Mariage Frères was founded in 1854 by brothers Henri and Edouard Mariage (not this particular store, though). As you would expect, one of the best selection of teas and tea accessories. In May and June, arrival of Spring Darjeelings which are likely to make you wonder how you can drink any other tea.
—- 90 rue Montorgueil 75002 Paris

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Check out the first Rue Montorgueil post.