In Paris, the Enfants Rouges Devastated by a Fire

In Paris, the Enfants Rouges Devastated by a Fire

Edouard Amoiel

Edouard Amoiel

13 octobre 2026

The oldest covered market in Paris was destroyed on the night of October 11–12. Located in the heart of the Marais, this iconic destination for food lovers in Paris has seen its operations abruptly halted.

It was one of those places where people came both to fill their shopping carts and to sit down for a meal. On the night of Sunday, October 11, through Monday, October 12, a violent fire devastated the Marché des Enfants Rouges, in the heart of the Marais. The stalls were destroyed, and the metal structure partially collapsed. However, the firefighters’ response prevented the flames from spreading to neighboring buildings.

The Market Kids

Founded in 1615, the capital’s oldest covered market had found new life through its food shops and cooking stations. There, you’d run into local residents and visitors who had come to savor French, Moroccan, Lebanese, or Japanese specialties. This diversity made the place much more than just a market—it was a gathering spot. For the vendors who brought the market to life, the fire has ushered in a period of uncertainty, compounded by the emotional impact of the damage suffered by this historic site.

This news truly saddens us. We recently had lunch at Enfants du Marché, run by Michael Grosman, and we have wonderful memories of that experience. Our thoughts are with all the staff at these wonderful establishments, and we wish them strength as they navigate this difficult time. From Switzerland, we send them our full support and hope to visit them again soon for new culinary discoveries.