Rue Montorgueil
2nd Arrondisement, Paris, Île-de-France, 75002
One of central Paris’ storied thoroughfares, Rue Montorgueil has a reputation as a culinary hub. Once home to Les Halles—Paris’ major food market, demolished in 1971—today, the street is lined with bistros, pastry shops, and other delectable addresses. Visit celebrated highlights including Stohrer, Paris’ oldest pastry shop; l’Escargot Montorgueil, a restaurant founded in 1832; and Au Pied de Cochon, a 24-hour eatery that specializes in pig trotters and other traditional fare.
The Basics
Once site of the famed Les Halles market, Rue Montorgueil is still a popular destination for food lovers. Home to celebrated highlights like Stohrer (which dates to 1730 and is Paris’ oldest pastry shop), l’Escargot Montorgueil (a restaurant founded in 1832), and Au Pied de Cochon (a 24-hour eatery that specializes in pig trotters and other traditional fare), the street is a veritable treasure trove of must-try delicacies. For dedicated home cooks, the Rue Montorgueil also hosts an array of cooking supply shops. While Le Creuset cookware might be too heavy to take home in your suitcase, smaller utensils and servingware make for appealing souvenirs.
Rue Montorgueil features on various walking-tour itineraries of central Paris and is also easy to explore independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
As Rue Montorgueil is closed to vehicular traffic, it is accessible to pedestrians and families.
Given its heavy concentration of famed eateries, Rue Montorgueil is perfect for time-pressed visitors looking to embark on a Paris tasting tour.
Rue Montorgueil has been immortalized by artists the likes of Claude Monet.
How to Get There
Given its location in the heart of Paris, Rue Montorgueil can be reached by numerous forms of transportation. If traveling by Metro, take line 3 to Sentier station or line 4 to Les Halles station. The street is also served by bus 29, 38, 47, 67, 74, or 85. It can easily be reached on foot or by Vélib’ bike.
When to Get There
As its many restaurants, shops, and cafés are Rue Montorgueil’s main attractions, it’s best to plan a visit during typical daytime opening hours. However, if you do find yourself visiting after dark, the street also boasts a selection of late-night eateries and vibrant bars.
History of the Rue Montorgueil Area
The area where Les Halles once stood has hosted major local markets since as far back as the 11th century. Formal market stalls were constructed by the 12th century and gradually grew into Les Halles: one of the city’s largest, grandest markets. Though it was demolished in 1971, its legacy still lives on today.
Ways to explore
Rue Montorgueil—located in the 1st and 2nd Arrondissements—features on many food-focused walking tours of central Paris; excursions typically stop in its restaurants, pastry shops, gourmet stores, and green grocers. This popular destination for gourmands is also easy to explore on your own, paired with a guided sightseeing tour to cover the city’s top attractions. Pop into eateries to sample some of the most authentic French food in Paris, plus browse the cooking supply shops for high-end culinary souvenirs, such as Le Creuset cookware and other treasures. Shopping enthusiasts can pair a stroll here with time at Les Halles, the modern underground shopping center where the city’s main food market once stood.
Accessibility
Not all of the restaurants and shops along Rue Montorgueil are wheelchair accessible. The street is closed to traffic, making it easy to navigate.
Age limits
None; kids will enjoy exploring this road on family-friendly tours featuring crowd pleasers, such as pastries.
What to pack
Camera, cash or credit card, shopping tote
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, layers
Not allowed
Many Parisian food shops do not allow customers to handle the goods on display.
Amenities
Bars, restaurants, food shops
Address
Given its location in the heart of Paris, Rue Montorgueil can be reached by numerous forms of transportation or on foot from premier sights, including the Louvre and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Driving
Rue Montorgueil is closed to traffic and there is limited parking in the surrounding area. Opt instead to reach this lively street on foot or by public transportation.
Public transportation
If traveling by metro, take line 3 to Sentier station or line 4 to Les Halles station. The street is also served by bus routes 20, 29, and 39.
Best times to visit
Visit during the day to pop into the street’s pastry shops, bakeries, delis, and other gourmet outlets. After sunset, the many restaurants here come to life.
Best days to visit
Some shops and restaurants may be closed on Sundays or Mondays, so visit from Tuesday to Saturday to avoid disappointment.
Best months to visit
Dining alfresco at one of the many restaurant terraces along Rue Montorgueil is one of its charms; outside dining is typically most pleasant in the spring and fall.
Special events
The shop windows and displays along Rue Montorgueil are particularly festive during the December holiday season.
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