Le Marché des Enfants Rouges was created in 1615, during the reign of Louis XIII, to provide the inhabitants of the Marais with food and provisions. The Marais was an up-and-coming area that had been developed in the 15th century. As the "doyen" or oldest covered market in Paris, Les Enfants Rouges still provides the quartier with fresh produce, meats, fish, and wine, and it is a great option for an informal lunch.

It's a relatively small market—its original name was Le Petit Marché—and always lively. Some of its stalls offer organic produce (identified as bio or biologique).

One of its most interesting features is the variety of prepared foods. One stall may specialize in Italian food, while another offers couscous and Middle Eastern cuisine. The variety of patés and sausages is amazing, and you'll also find things like hummus and salads. There's something for everyone, from the pickiest eater to the most adventurous.

You can order your food and enjoy it at informal picnic tables around the market. If you want a glass of wine with your lunch and the vendor where you bought your food doesn't sell wine, you can simply go into one of the surrounding restaurants and buy a glass.

Some lunch choices at the Enfants Rouges Market.

If you want a more traditional lunch, several nearby restaurants offer full service meals. Or if you're wanting to be outside, simply buy some prepared foods and fruit and head to the nearby Square du Temple for a picnic.

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