Le Baron Rouge is simultaneously a legendary establishment and a unique degustation spot. The wines are stored in wooden barrels obtained from small and independent producers in the Bordeaux, Loire and Rhône regions of France. A glass should cost you between 1.50 and 3.20 EUR. The bar space itself is relatively small and much of the activity takes place outside on the sidewalk, where on warm summer afternoons, men with worn shoes and clothing can be seen sipping on glasses of wine, side-by-side with well-to-do ladies carrying expensive Chanel handbags and leashed lapdogs. One will be hard-pressed to find such a varied mix of patrons anywhere else in Paris, which in itself is a good reason to visit this establishment. Those who wish to have more than just a light snack can also order oysters or sausages on the side. If you get an impulsive urge to continue enjoying the evening at your hotel room or at a friend's place, then for a mere 4 EUR, they will fill up a take-away glass bottle of wine for you, straight from the barrel.
Not far away is one the most lively and colourful markets in Paris, the Marché d'Aligre, which also incorporates the famous Marché Beauvau. The latter is known as the second oldest covered market pavilion in the city and dates from the year 1777.
1 rue Th. Roussel 75012 Paris Tel.: 01 43 43 14 32