My husband and I will be taking our 4 kids to Paris for the Christmas season. I would like for 1 or 2 lunches (a change of pace from the cafes) to be able to purchase baguettes, cheeses, cold cuts, drinks, and anything else that may not be on a menu. We would normally eat outside in a park. I understand during that time, Paris will be wet and cold. The cold doesn't bother us, but wet baguettes do. Does anyone know of any specific indoor public places where eating one's own food is allowed? I'm thinking of indoor markets and maybe the Pompidou Center. Am I right? Any other suggestions? Thank you.
Posted by
Portlandia
3313 posts
This is a great question, Jeannine, and I hope you get more responses.
There are tables underground at the Louvre where you can buy ready made sandwiches. I can't recall if it would be acceptable to bring your own food.
Posted by
Nederland, CO
108 posts
How about Notre Dame? Or any other Paris church for that matter....
Posted by
Napa, CA
3580 posts
Train stations have lots of seating, atmosphere, and places to buy picnic ingredients. I'm thinking Gare de Lyon. I've been thru there a few times and have had one or two picnics there myself. I guess you could ride the Metro around long enough to eat, but I've never seen that done.
Posted by
Las Vegas, NV, USA
190 posts
Wow, I just returned from Paris and can't think of a place to eat your own picnic inside. Perhaps you can schedule your days to be near your accomodations at lunch time? Perhaps you can email places like the Pompidou Center and find out their individual policies. Good Luck, and enjoy Paris!
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
251 posts
Around the Louvre, sorry I don't rememer what side our where just that it was attached. there are some covered areas.
Though I have to agree with the train station idea, I love sitting in the train station.
I have spent a couple of Dec./Jan in Paris, COLD and WINDY yes, but not so much rain (just my expereince)
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Jason,, setting up and having a picnic in a church, any church really would be very disrepectful.
Posted by
Anacortes, WA, USA
3 posts
Yes, you can bring your own sack lunch into the Louvre. I did it with no problem. It sure beats buying a $15 dollar sandwich at the counters.
Have fun!!!
Posted by
OP
NYC, USA
219 posts
Thank you all for spending time thinking and responding. Breton Beats-- I hope you're right ie dry and cold. Would like to spend some time at 1 of the parks or Bois de Boulogne. Jason --I had to think twice about your suggestion. It might work if the church has been de-sanctified and there are available tables and chairs. Tara-- Thank you very much for a definite place. Of course, I'm going to drag everyone there whether they want to or not! Why not have a picnic there also.