A bit of history

The urbanization of this neighborhood began in the 11^th century when Louis VI built the Châtelet fortress.  At this point in time, the area was the center of commercial activity in the capital and the seat of all municipal institutions.

Today

Les Halles/Beaubourg is now the largest pedestrian neighborhood in Europe. It is centered on the Forum des Halles (www.forumdeshalles.com) , a large underground shopping center and public transportation hub. At street level, the Forum is covered by a series of gardens which are dominated by the impressive St-Eustache church to the north. Just beyond the church is rue Montorgeuil, a favorite strolling grounds for Parisians with quaint cafés and open markets. On the opposite side of Les Halles are the Fountain of the Innocent and the Tour St-Jacques, a gothic bell tower which dates to the 16th century.

Shopping : If you’re looking for the latest jeans and street wear fashions, check out Rue Etienne Marcel. The boutiques of Diesel, Replay, M&F Girbaud, Energie and G-Star line the street between Rue Montorgeuil and Place des Victoires

Vie Gay : Quaint, cobblestone Rue Tiquetonne is home to several gay restaurants.

Our favorite addresses

In the past, this neighborhood was known as the ‘stomach of Paris,’ a reference to the vast farmer’s market which once occupied Les Halles.  Today, some of the city’s best gay restaurants are in this area.  Our favorites include Le Monde à l’Envers for Laure’s warm welcome and Dany’s excellent cuisine.  Le Loup Blanc was one of Paris’ first concept restaurants and is still quite successful, and Pigz offers an inventive cuisine based on traditional favorites.