France's best-loved snacks and pastries, from the street that fed Paris to the heart of the Marais.
Quick Overview
- Your group only (up to 6 people)
- Duration: About 3 hours
- What we see: Stohrer, a boulangerie, a fromagerie, a charcuterie, rue des Rosiers, the Marché des Enfants Rouges
- What's special: The baba au rhum where it has been made since 1730, and a story at every stop
- Days: Tuesday to Sunday (many food shops close on Mondays)
- Pace: Unhurried, and shaped around what you love
- Languages: English; ask if you need another language
- Best for: Food lovers, couples, families, first-time visitors
- Your guide: Me, a state-licensed guide-conférencier with a background in French art history
The Experience
Rue Montorgueil was the street that fed the old Halles market, and it's still lined with bakers, cheesemongers and butchers. The Marais next door adds its Jewish bakeries, its falafel and the oldest covered market in Paris.
We taste as we walk: Stohrer, the oldest pâtisserie in Paris, where the baba au rhum has been made since 1730, a boulangerie and the secrets of a good baguette, a cheese shop, a charcuterie, the Marché des Enfants Rouges and a chocolatier to finish.
You choose what you taste at each stop, and pay the shops directly, so there's no set menu to sit through. By the end, it's a proper meal, and you'll know how to order like a Parisian.
Route & Walking Info
- Distance: About 2.5 km
- Terrain: Flat, some narrow and busy pavements
- Pace: Whatever feels good to you. We take breaks when we need them.
- Accessibility: If you need to avoid stairs or long walks, tell me before booking and I'll adapt the route.
Good to Know
- Meeting Point: Étienne Marcel metro station, exit to rue Turbigo. I'll send a map link and very clear instructions once you book.
- Timing: Try to be there 10 minutes early so we can start smoothly.
- Allergies and diets: Tell me when you book; I'll check each stop in advance.
- Come hungry: this is a proper meal by the end.
- Shoes: Wear your most comfortable ones. Really.
- Bags: Keep them small; many sites have security checks.
- Late Arrivals: If you're late, it cuts into our time, but I'll make sure you still see the essentials.
Optional Add-Ons
- Wine and cheese stop in a licensed bistro (18+)
- Carnavalet museum the same day
- Vegetarian version
- Other Languages (Ask me about availability)
- Afternoon Planning (I can help you map out the rest of your day nearby)
After You Book
- A personal confirmation once I've checked the date. I confirm every booking myself.
- My meeting instructions, clear and simple.
- I'll ask what you're most curious about (or what you'd rather skip), and shape the visit around it.
- Mobility needs or children in the group? Tell me early and I'll plan for it.
- Want lunch or dinner afterwards? I'll suggest a table I'd book myself nearby.
FAQ
Is it really private? Yes. Just you, your group, and me.
Why aren't the tastings included? So you only pay for what you actually want. You buy directly at each shop, and I'll guide your choices.
Is it good for children? Yes. Kids usually love the pastries and the market.
Send me your dates and what you love most, and I'll shape the day around you.