Space there…

There are many magnificent places in Paris. But even the locals often don't know this. That's exactly why Mademoiselle Lili loves going there.

Treffen wir uns auf der Place du Marché Shall we meet at the Place du Marché Sainte Catherine? Most Parisians are taken aback: Where is that, please? Everyone knows the Place de la République, de la Bastille or des Vosges, but this small, pretty square is really something of an insider tip in the otherwise pretty worn-out center of Paris.

If the Marais, with its narrow streets and the traffic of people, bicycles and cars, is too busy and the magnificent Place des Vosges is too noisy, almost all au pairs in the area leave their children in their care to roam around in the surrounding green space when the weather is nice the fountains are raging: If you're looking for a relaxing break in the big city, without noise of any kind, you only have to walk for five minutes - and you'll feel like you're in a village in the south.

The Place du Marché Sainte Catherine is located in a hidden side street between the Saint Paul church and the Place des Vosges. A rectangular, pedestrian-only square with shady mulberry trees, village benches and historic pumping wells, surrounded by a harmonious architectural ensemble from the Louis XVI period, completed shortly before the French Revolution. The name goes back to the monastery that once stood here; the market that gave it its name has no longer existed since 1929.

Whether for breakfast, lunch, aperitif or dinner – this is where I like to stroll when the weather is nice and meet up with friends. Various restaurant terraces are spread around the cobblestone square, where you can breathe deeply in heavenly peace and quiet without crowds. For breakfast or brunch I like to go to “Les Gamins”: My favorites: Poor Knights made from brioche with orange blossom essence and salted caramel – or the salty alternative: toasted wholemeal bread with avocado, cream cheese, egg, pomegranate and salad. Vegetarians are happy here around the clock - the selection of meat-free dishes is the largest in the entire place.

Things are traditional in the “Bistrot de la Place”. The classics of French cuisine are represented, from au gratin onion soup to braised beef cheeks à la Bourguignon to tarte tatin. The best place to have an aperitif is at “Chez Joséphine” or “Terrasse Sainte Catherine” - they offer a large selection of wines and cocktails as well as delicious and original tapas to share. Last but not least: “Le Marché” for its meat and charcuterie platters and juicy giant burgers. Don't expect the highest levels and most ambitious culinary capers in any of the cafés and restaurants, you won't find them here. However, honest soul food that is inexpensive given the extremely beautiful setting.

You can also just sit on one of the benches on the square, enjoy the first rays of sunshine, take a breather or read - it's completely free.