Hidden treasures on a Sunday stroll

Ok, so maybe they're not quite "hidden," but somehow Paris always seems to surprise me with it's nooks and crannies. This past weekend, with my visiting partner-in-crime Jared (at his best, see left), I walked more of the Right Bank than I ever have before. Though we started in my neighborhood in the Latin Quarter, we made our way across the river into the Marais, and then continued through the 10th arrondissement, a somewhat undiscovered (to me, at least) slice of the city that has a character all its own. During our long walk, we came across two very special spots:

1) The Marché des Enfants Rouges. Yes, that does translate to the "Market of Red Children," apparently so named for a nearby 17th-century school where the children wore red uniforms. More importantly, however, is the fact that it is the oldest food market in Paris, somewhat hidden from view on a quaint street in the Marais, and that it is a spectacle of all things delicious. It is a covered market, lined not only with stalls of fresh produce and meats but also with vendors selling freshly prepared plates of hot food. Jared and I waited in line for 20 minutes at the "bio" stall for a plate of chicken, rice and grilled veggies.

2) The Canal Saint Martin. And you thought the Seine was the only body of water running through Paris? Wrong. Along the banks of this canal in the 10th arronidissement are charming cafés, wine bars and shops. The area feels offbeat, artsy and slightly forgotten - Jared described it as "bobo" (bourgeois bohemian.) All that aside, the highlight for me was the glass of chardonnay and piece of chocolate cake I ordered at one of the cafés on rue Dieu (and yes, it was heavenly - pun intended.)