In Paris, grocery shopping is anything but a mundane task. While many Americans see food shopping as a chore to be quickly crossed off their to-do list, Parisians embrace it as a delightful experience. Food in Paris, and indeed all of France, is not simply sustenance; it’s a cornerstone of their culture, a source of pleasure and enjoyment.
Although readily available pre-prepared meals exist, the French prefer shopping for fresh ingredients and preparing their own meals. This daily ritual, a delight to observe, is a testament to their appreciation for quality and authentic flavors.
A Parisian’s Paradise: Causses
In the heart of Paris, tucked away in the 9th arrondissement, lies a charming grocery store called Causses. This hidden gem, discovered while on a quest for lavender yogurt, is a haven for discerning palates. With its high ceilings, industrial windows, and friendly staff, Causses offers a cozy and inviting ambiance. Each summer, my Parisian apartment’s kitchen shelves are filled with treasures from this convivial store, making Monoprix or Carrefour seem entirely unnecessary.
Causses sources locally from independent producers, ensuring the quality and freshness of its offerings. From fruits and vegetables to cheeses, meats, nuts, oils, coffee, olives, and a well-stocked wine cellar, Causses has something for everyone. And yes, you’ll find that delightful lavender yogurt too!
A Baker’s Dream: G. Detou
G. Detou, a haven for serious bakers, is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Packed with culinary delights, this seemingly cramped store is expertly organized, making it easy to navigate its aisles and uncover its treasures. The sheer variety of ingredients is astounding, with a focus on high-quality, artisanal products. The centerpiece of this emporium is its impressive selection of chocolate, boasting a wide array of producers, including Michel Cluizel, Valrhona, Voisin, and Weiss.
If the sheer number of chocolate producers doesn’t impress you, then the 3- to 5-kilo sacks of chocolate bars might! But G. Detou offers more than just chocolate. A wall dedicated to nuts, from pistachios to pecans, is a nut-lover’s paradise. Beyond the sweet treats, G. Detou also carries a delightful selection of oils, olives, tinned fishes, and mustards, enough to make any savory food lover swoon. My last visit was particularly memorable for the hand-peeled, glass-jarred fruit produced in Gascony, a true testament to the quality and care put into every item.
A Symphony of Spices: Epices Roellinger
Nestled in the heart of Paris, on a street known for its Asian noodle restaurants, lies a hidden gem – Epices Roellinger. This family-owned spice shop is a true “heaven scent”, more than just a spice shop. It’s an emporium, a den of exotic aromas, a place where the senses are awakened and the imagination ignited. It’s a place where you’ll find more than just one type of vanilla bean; Epices Roellinger boasts twelve different varieties. The accommodating staff will gladly explain the nuances of each, ensuring you find the perfect one for your needs.
Epices Roellinger offers a range of spice blends, each meticulously crafted for specific uses, from those intended for hot chocolate to those designed to enhance the flavor of strawberries. But that’s not all. The shop also carries an array of salts, mustards, oils, and vinegars, all carefully curated to complement the spices. With its heady aromas, Epices Roellinger evokes the charm of a Parisian perfumery, and why not? The intoxicating scents of nutmeg flower, lemon zest, and cinnamon linger long after you’ve left, a reminder of the unique experience that awaits you within its walls.
