Rue Cler, a charming street on the Left Bank of Paris, is a haven for foodies and a treasure trove of culinary delights. From gourmet food shops to traditional French cafes, this vibrant street offers something for everyone. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure and explore the highlights of the left side of Rue Cler.
Starting Your Journey
Begin your exploration at the top of the street, near the Ecole Militaire Metro stop, where you’ll find a large post office with yellow signs. Before you head down the street, don’t miss the renowned Lenôtre, a gourmet food shop located just outside the metro on Avenue de la Motte Piquet.
French Delights and International Flavors
As you venture down the left side of Rue Cler, you’ll encounter a delightful mix of French and international flavors.
- A very French brasserie awaits, recommended by renowned travel expert Rick Steves, offering an authentic taste of Parisian life.
- A fruit and vegetable stand catches your eye, one of the largest on Rue Cler. The fierce competition amongst merchants ensures competitive prices. Be sure to check out their daily specials.
- A quaint chocolatier welcomes you with a large model chocolate éclair, perfect for kids to sit on and enjoy.
- An Italian-style gelato café tempts you with its popular ice cream chain in Europe. Indulge in an ice cream “rose” made with your favorite flavors.
- A French-style café with a spacious terrace beckons you to relax and savor its delicious menu. The cozy interior, adorned with subway tile and back-lit bottles, creates a charming ambiance.
A Corner of Delight
You’ve reached the corner of Rue du Champ du Mars and Rue Cler, where you’ll discover the Cafe du Marché. This popular cafe is a hub for locals and tourists alike, offering a covered outdoor area perfect for people-watching year-round. Be sure to arrive early, as reservations are not accepted and the cafe quickly fills up, especially with the chic residents of the neighborhood. Enjoy the daily specials listed on blackboards at reasonable prices.
More Culinary Gems
Continue your journey down Rue Cler and discover more hidden treasures:
- A trendy cafe with excellent service is a popular spot for a quick cafe or a light meal.
- Another large greengrocer offers competitive prices due to the street’s intense competition.
- A vibrant Italian delicatessen, a true gem of the neighborhood, awaits you. This authentic Italian shop offers homemade specialties from delicious Italian sausages and meats to mouthwatering pasta, cheeses, and side dishes. Don’t miss their famous Choucroute, an Alsatian specialty perfect for a cold day. Be sure to tell the salesman the number of people you’re feeding so they can provide the right amount.
- A charming cafe with imaginative cocktails and delicious burgers is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner apèro.
- A flower vendor with a beautiful selection of flowers and green plants adds a touch of color and fragrance to the street.
- An organic cosmetic and skin care shop focused on wellness and sustainability offers natural products for body and soul.
- A wine and spirit retailer stands out with its unique philosophy: wine should be accessible to everyone. They strive to deconstruct the pretentious attitude often associated with wine connoisseurship and promote the idea that wine is a part of everyday life in France.
Local Recommendations and Hidden Treasures
Let’s delve into some local recommendations and uncover hidden gems along Rue Cler:
- A highly-recommended Greek street crepe stand offers delicious crepes made with a secret batter recipe. The “speciale” crepe, with egg, emmental cheese, feta, tomato, onions, and bell peppers, is a must-try!
- A renowned fish merchant boasts an enormous selection of fresh seafood, including sea snails, crab, and fresh fish from the Channel.
- Asian fast-food shops are gaining popularity in Paris, offering a quick and convenient lunch option.
- A large greengrocer, a favorite amongst locals, offers high-quality produce and competitive prices.
A Culinary Journey to Remember
Rue Cler, with its vibrant mix of culinary delights, promises a memorable gastronomic adventure. From traditional French cafes to international flavors, this charming street offers something for every palate. So, embark on your own exploration of Rue Cler and discover its culinary treasures for yourself.
