Episode 4

EPISODE 4: Our little black book of Paris addresses

Wanting to find out more about some of the places mentioned in this episode? Here we bring you a handy summary of each one that is mentioned – and how to find out further information.

What?
Marché Richard Lenoir
Why?
Held at Place de la Bastille, this popular market serves the people of the Marais, Bastille, and parts of east Paris. Every Thursday and Sunday, they come here to get their fruit, veg, roast chicken, cheese, salad and, not least, their churros (or chi-chis).
Where?
11^th arrondissement
More info here

What?
The Marais
Why?
One of the oldest parts of the city, this lively district dates back to medieval times. Today, its historic, narrow streets are renowned for their cafés, bars, restaurants, boutiques and galleries.
Where?
3^rd and 4^th arrondissements
More info here

What?
Place de la Bastille
Why?
Straddling three arrondissements, the Place de la Bastille is where the notorious Bastille prison once stood before being destroyed in the Revolution of 1789. Today, the square plays host to large cultural events, such as concerts, fairs and more.
Where?
4^th, 11th, and 12^th arrondissements
More info here

What?
Colonne de Juillet
Why?
Located at the centre of the Place de la Bastille, the Colonne de Juillet commemorates the revolution of 1830 but is also linked with the events of 1789 (see above). Topped by the ‘Génie de la Liberté’ (or Spirit of Freedom), the tower has been closed to the public since 1985 but is due to reopen in 2020.
Where?
4^th arrondissement
More info here

What?
Chichis (churros)
Why?
A sweet Spanish snack that is essentially a strip of fried dough, dusted with sugar or cinnamon, in long, thick strips. A perfect treat for a Sunday morning.
Where?
11^th arrondissement
More info here

What?
Bordeaux cakes (cannelés)
Why?
A delicious delicacy from Bordeaux, in the south-west of France, a cannelé is a small pastry flavoured with rum and vanilla. It also contains a soft custard centre and has a thick caramelized crust on the outside.
Where?
11^th arrondissement
More info here

What?
Le Moulin de l’Abbaye
Why?
If you want the freshest seasonal produce, head to the stall of Le Moulin de la Baie who grow everything at their farm in the Ile-de-France. From apples and pears to cabbages and squash to pumpkins and potatoes, you’ll be spoilt for choice. 
Where?
11^th arrondissement
More info here

What?
Maghrebian pâtisserie
Why?
For some truly tasty treats, head to the Maghrebian pâtisserie at the market. Among our own favourites here are the bread with cumin seeds, the Algerian crêpes and the pistachio cornets with honey.
Where?
11^th arrondissement
More info here

What?
East Paris
Why?
One of the most vibrant, up-and-coming parts of the city, the east of Paris combines traditional working-class neighbourhoods with artists’ ateliers and industrial heritage. Here, you will find many different nationalities happily co-existing together.
Where?
11^th, 19^th and 20^th arrondissements
More info here

 What?
Books by Andrew Hussey OBE
Why?
A celebrated author and historian, Andrew Hussey OBE is the author of several acclaimed books on French culture. Most notably, he wrote The French Intifada: The Long War between France and its Arabs, which explores the historical relationship between France and Africa.
Where?
All over Paris
More info here

What?
L’Escale Café
Why?
Located on the Île Saint-Louis, one of the two natural islands at the heart of the Seine, this cute corner café is something of a hidden gem. Overlooking the river, it offers a traditional brasserie experience with plenty of French classics.
Where?
4^th arrondissement
More info here

What?
Book by Lisa Anselmo
Why?
For those seeking an honest account on the ups and downs of moving to Paris, My Part-Time Paris Life by Lisa Anselmo is a poignant, touching and lively read charting one woman’s own experience.
Where?
All over Paris
More info here

What?
Pont des Arts 
Why?
The Pont des Arts is a famous pedestrian bridge in Paris that crosses the River Seine between the Institut de France and the central square of the Palais du Louvre. Just visible upstream is the cathedral of Notre-Dame.
Where?
1^st arrondissement
More info here

What?
Café Nemours
Why?
Ideally situated between the Louvre and the Palais-Royal Gardens, Le Nemours is a Parisian institution. Popular in the circles of culture, fashion and politics, it is particularly known for its stunning terrace.
Where?
1^st arrondissement
More info here

What?
Le Progrès
Why?
Located in the 3rd arrondissement, this is a popular café with all the hip kids, arty sorts and media professionals of the Marais. Always busy at apero time, get there early to be sure of a table.
Where?
3^rd arrondissement
More info here

What?
Canal Saint-Martin
Why?
Another very trendy part of the city, the Canal Saint-Martin is a 4.6km-long canal connecting the Canal de l’Ourcq to the river Seine. Lined with cafés, bars, and boutiques, it’s also a great place for a Sunday stroll.
Where?
10^th arrondissement
More info here

What?
Paris markets
Why?
With markets all over the capital, there’s certainly no shortage of places to shop for your fresh fruit and veg, etc. From specialised to covered to open-air, there’s sure to be one that suits your needs.
Where?
All over Paris
More info here