Paris: Outdoor Markets

biologique:  organic

marché:  market

bon marché:  cheap, inexpensive (literally "good market")

cher:  expensive (Who knew Cher's name literally was French for expensive?)

Inside the Place d'Aligre market -which has 

a covered area like New Orleans' French Market

Great outdoor markets abound in Paris.  The French don't spray preservatives on their food, and many people like to shop for fresh produce, meat, fish, and cheese at street markets.  

Some are more trendy and expensive than others.  The biologique -or organic- market on Boulevard Raspail for example is currently very hip with celebrities.  Ina Garten -the Barefoot Contessa chef on the Food Network- recommends it.  On weekends the prices are supposedly double what they are during the weekday market.

Most markets open only on certain days.  A few -like the less expensive market at Place d'Aligre- open every weekday (I'm not sure about  weekends).  I liked the Place d'Aligre market best because it was close to my apartment and less expensive.  The quality and variety in these markets amazed me.  I was also amazed how an area the day before or after a market would be spotless and completely empty.  The day of the market, however, the fish and other displays looked permanent and stationary.  The vendors must build and break down these displays with great speed and keep the area really clean during and after the markets.  The Thursday market on Boulevard Richard Lenoir near my apartment was huge and featured not just food but clothes and jewelry too.

 

 

Chinese foods for sell in the market

Cheeses