Market Guide: Paris; Rue Poncelet

According to the Mairie de Paris, there are more than 82 markets in Paris. With at least one market in each arrondissement, the number of markets increases the further you head out from the centre. Quite paradoxically, it is in these markets that you get a real sense of local community that isn’t so easily found in this international tourist-oriented city.

One of the best-loved markets in Paris is that of Rue Poncelet. It’s not the large sprawling bazaar of the type that you’ll find further out from the Champs Elysee (although it does sprawl a little in the height of summer), but it is a very nice part of town and what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in quality. The atmosphere is quite village-like and it’s a favourite with a number of stars of French TV and film. Another frequent visitor was local resident and Irish Nobel-winning writer Samuel Beckett.

Taking up parts of Rue Poncelet and Rue Bayen and sometimes spilling into the edge of the wide Avenue des Ternes in the 17th arrondissement, the market has a happy atmosphere with great food on show from a clearly house-proud group of vendors. Check out the fruit arrangements on the corner of Poncelet/Bayen, for example. Or browse the superb array of fruits de mer (always including Irish sea-urchins) at legendary fishmongers Daguerre Marée.

The market is open every day except Monday and Sunday afternoon from 09:00 to 13:00 and again from 15:00 to 19:00.

Tootlafrance Market Guide (Click on blue labels for more information on each market)

View Tootlafrance Market Guide in a larger map