Explore the Rue Cler and Classic Food Markets with SLL Paris

Sébastien Lasnier de Lavalette, of SLL Paris and SLL Périgord Travel, is passionate about sharing his knowledge of Paris with others. Originally starting with tours of the Périgord region, inspired by his family history there, Sébastien began his Paris tours about a year ago. His newest tour, the Eiffel Tower Food Market Tour, takes place each Sunday, when Sébastien takes a small group to explore a classic Parisian market at La Motte-Picquet–Grenelle, along with the well-known market street Rue Cler.  

What makes SLL Paris tours different from the rest? Without a doubt, it’s Sébastien’s friendliness, passion, and wealth of knowledge. His goal is to ensure people have fun and say, “This is the best thing I’ve done in Paris,” through affordable and enjoyable tours. In addition, he loves to show people corners of Paris they’d never see on an average tour.  

While our two-hour food tour focused on the 7th arrondissement, Sébastien also shared tidbits of information about other favorite areas, such as the Latin Quarter, Montmartre, and the covered galleries, where he also offers walking tours. As we meandered through the crowded market, Sébastien provided us with an array of local, seasonal foods like strawberries, cheeses, meats, chocolates, and honey. At each market stand, he shared facts about French history and gastronomy, such as the fact that there are over 1,200 types of cheese in France and that every region in France produces its own honey. 

There are 70 bi-weekly markets in Paris, with La Motte-Picquet–Grenelle being open on Wednesdays and Sundays. In the 7th arrondissement, another food market pops up on Avenue de Saxe behind the École Militaire, which was one of the many sites we saw along the tour. A highlight was strolling through the Champs de Mars to see some of the best unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower. Along the way, Sébastien shared information about the World’s Fairs of 1889 and 1900, when the Eiffel Tower and Grand Palais/Petit Palais were built, respectively. He also shared fun facts, like the fact that the Eiffel Tower houses 100 antennae, which are used for radio and TV stations. 

Beyond his historical knowledge, Sébastien shared practical advice for those visiting Paris, such as how to avoid getting pickpocketed and how to sound more French by using words like “voilà.” As we passed the shops, market stands, and restaurants of Rue Cler, he also gave recommendations for some of his favorite family-owned spots, such as the pâtisserie Stohrer and the chocolate store À la Mère de Famille. 

Sébastien’s food tour ended at a chic French restaurant on Rue Cler for a drink and time to savor the rest of the delicious food from the market. Over rosé and sparkling water, the other visitors and I chatted about the fantastic time we’d had. I’ll leave you with some of their comments: 

“Sébastien is energetic and knowledgeable.”  

“He’s very personable and humble.” 

“He was easygoing and very well-organized.” 

You can find all of Sébastien’s tours on his website. 

Access to the food markets: Métros 6, 8, 10 at La Motte-Picquet–Grenelle