Rue Mouffetard Market

Market street vs Street market

Rue Mouffetard is both a market street, and a street market. What does that mean? Parisians have always been keen on fresh foods, and being in the city access has been limited since medieval times.  Every day farmers and producers from the agricultural lands around the city would come into particular streets to sell their wares.  Hence a market within a street.

But with the growing civilization of the city there have been rules set about market cleanliness and behavior for hundreds of years, and gradually market stalls were cleaned up and producers moved into shop fronts.  These streets full of shops selling fresh produce are Market streets and while Paris has many it is without doubt that rue Mouffetard is the premier market street of the city.

In his novel A Movable Feast the American author Ernest Hemmingway called the street a "that wonderful narrow crowded market street which led into the Place Contrescarpe".  To him it was a market street, but then he lived in the northern part just steps from Place Contrescarpe, while the street stalls of the produce market are at the far southern end at Square Saint-Médard.

While you are there don't miss a look inside the church itself, appreciate the fountain in the center of the traffic circle and of course pop in to the Mouff branch of The House of Androuet, the premier fromageries of Paris.  Don't just look at the 200 types of cheese, but step back and observe the beautiful painted exterior of the building itself at 134 rue Mouffetard.

 

Opening Hours

Market stalls often close when at lunch and do not open again in the afternoon so mornings are the best time to visit.  Before 9am shops will have not opened, indeed some won't be fully operational until 10am. 

Opening Days

Completely closed on Sunday afternoon and on the whole of Monday the market does operate all other days, however it is most interesting by far to visit when it is open on Saturday and Sunday morning when the local population visit to shop. On the weekends the whole street throbs with activity as people shop, drink, converse and enjoy themselves.

Map / Location

At the southern end of the street, right outside the church, is where you will find the market stalls selling produce.  But of course don't miss walking up the street to see the many other shops of the market street many of which have open air frontages with stalls in the pedestrian street extending the market experience for hundreds of meters.

Metro stop

Closest Metro stop to the market stalls is Censier - Daubenton. The closest bus line is

Featured Vendors & Specialty Shops 2025

Poissonnerie Quoniam (139 Rue Mouffetard)

This legendary fishmonger has become a destination for both locals and food enthusiasts seeking the freshest daily catch. The impressive displays of fish and seafood create some of the most photogenic scenes on the street, regularly featured in culinary publications and food tours. Arrive early in the morning to see the vendors arranging their colorful displays and to secure the best selection of seasonal catches.

The House of Androuet (134 Rue Mouffetard)

Founded in 1909 by Henri Androuët, who later became France's leading cheese ambassador and named the beloved triple-cream Brillat-Savarin cheese, this historic fromagerie continues the tradition of excellence. The knowledgeable cheesemongers provide expert guidance whether you're selecting a simple walking-around cheese or creating an elaborate selection for a special occasion. The building's decoratively painted exterior exemplifies the artistic heritage of Parisian market streets and serves as a landmark for visitors exploring the area.

Maison Caffet (137 Rue Mouffetard)

Opened in July 2024 just before the Paris Olympics, this newest addition to Rue Mouffetard brings the excellence of Pascal Caffet's chocolate-making expertise directly to the street. Since 1954, Maison Caffet has been renowned for combining daring innovation with traditional French craftsmanship in chocolate and pastry making. Located steps away from Censier-Daubenton metro station, this elegant boutique displays exquisite chocolates and pastries in beautifully appointed windows. The shop specializes in artisan chocolates, French macarons, and seasonal specialties that showcase the evolution of this historic market street into a destination for contemporary artisanal excellence.

L'Atelier Artisan Crêpier Mouffetard (140 Rue Mouffetard)

This modern crêperie brings a fresh approach to traditional French crêpe-making while maintaining the authentic character that defines Rue Mouffetard. Located near the historic Saint-Médard church, the restaurant offers both sweet and savory crêpes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients and premium elements like Michel Cluizel chocolate spread and salted butter caramel. The modern design creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for families, with terrace seating that allows diners to immerse themselves in the lively street activity. Beyond traditional crêpes, the restaurant features an artisanal cider bar with cocktails, making it a versatile destination for lunches, dinners, or relaxed afternoon beverages. The establishment offers the convenience of on-site dining, takeaway, and delivery services, reflecting how contemporary businesses adapt to modern needs while preserving the market street's authentic appeal.

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2025 Updates and Practical Information

Recent Improvements: Construction work that enhanced the street's accessibility and infrastructure was completed in August 2025, improving the overall visitor experience. The market continues to attract both locals and visitors with its authentic atmosphere and diverse offerings.

Optimal Visiting Times: For the best market experience, visit between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on Tuesday through Saturday when vendors are fully operational and local residents are shopping. Saturday mornings offer the most vibrant atmosphere with the greatest variety of vendors.

Seasonal Highlights: Spring brings the finest produce selections and pleasant shopping weather. Summer extends outdoor dining and café culture along the street. Autumn offers harvest specialties and comfortable temperatures. Winter focuses on comfort foods, artisanal preserves, and the cozy atmosphere of traditional Parisian market culture.

 

 

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