Upscale épiceries in Paris are high-end gourmet food shops that offer a wide range of delicacies, from fine cheeses to artisanal chocolates. These shops are a haven for food lovers, providing an opportunity to experience the finest French cuisine.

• Cheese (Fromage):
  • Comté: A hard cheese with a nutty flavor, aged for varying periods.
  • Brie de Meaux: A soft, creamy cheese with a rich flavor.
  • Roquefort: A blue cheese known for its sharp and tangy taste.
  • Chèvre: A variety of goat cheeses, from soft and creamy to firm and crumbly.
• Charcuterie:
  • Jambon de Paris: Parisian ham, mild and delicate, perfect for sandwiches.
  • Saucisson: French dry-cured sausage, often made from pork.
  • Rillettes: A type of pâté made from slow-cooked, shredded meat, usually pork or duck.
• Baked Goods (Pâtisserie & Boulangerie):
  • Baguette Tradition: A classic French baguette with a crisp crust and chewy interior.
  • Croissants: Flaky, buttery pastries perfect for breakfast or a snack.
  • Tarte au Citron: A lemon tart with a delicate, buttery crust.
• Condiments & Spreads:
  • Dijon Mustard: A sharp and tangy mustard, a staple in French cuisine.
  • Cornichons: Small, tart pickles often paired with charcuterie.
  • Honey (Miel): High-quality French honey, such as lavender or acacia.
  • Foie Gras: A luxurious and creamy spread made from duck or goose liver.
• Wine & Champagne:
  • Bordeaux: A full-bodied red wine, perfect with meats.
  • Chablis: A dry white wine, excellent with seafood or cheese.
  • Champagne: A sparkling wine ideal for celebrations or simply indulging.
• Sweets & Chocolates:
  • Macarons: Delicate almond meringue cookies with various fillings.
  • Chocolates: Artisanal chocolates from renowned Parisian chocolatiers.
  • Madeleines: Small, buttery sponge cakes with a distinctive shell shape.
• Other Delicacies:
  • Truffle Products: Truffle oils, salts, and spreads that add luxury to any dish.
  • Olive Oil: High-quality, cold-pressed olive oil from Provence.
  • Tea (Thé): Gourmet teas, such as Earl Grey or herbal blends from famous Parisian tea houses.

• Packaging: Upscale épiceries typically offer elegant packaging that ensures your purchases are well-protected. Ask for items to be vacuum-sealed or wrapped securely, especially cheeses and charcuterie, to maintain freshness.
• Storing: Once back at your apartment, store perishables like cheese, meats, and pastries in the refrigerator. Non-perishables like condiments, chocolates, and wines can be stored in a cool, dry place.
• Serving: For an apartment meal, you can easily create a charcuterie and cheese board with your selections. Pair with a fresh baguette, some olives, and a bottle of wine for an elegant yet simple dining experience.

• Preparation: Before heading out, pack your items carefully. Use a cooler bag or insulated carrier to keep perishables like cheese and charcuterie fresh.
• Essentials to Bring:
  • Cutlery: Bring a small knife for slicing cheese, meats, and bread.
  • Serving Utensils: A small cutting board, a few plates, and napkins will make your picnic more enjoyable.
  • Corkscrew: If you plan to bring wine, don't forget a corkscrew.
  • Glasses: Consider bringing reusable or disposable glasses for wine or champagne.
• What to Pack:
  • Cheese and Charcuterie: Pre-slice cheese and meats to make serving easier.
  • Baguette: A freshly baked baguette is a must for any French picnic.
  • Fresh Fruit: Grapes, apples, or berries complement the rich flavors of cheese and charcuterie.
  • Pastries: Bring a selection of macarons or madeleines for a sweet finish.
  • Drinks: A bottle of wine or sparkling water is perfect for a relaxed outdoor setting.
• Location: Enjoy your picnic at one of Paris’s beautiful parks, such as Champ de Mars, Luxembourg Gardens, or Bois de Boulogne.

• A Taste of French Luxury: Upscale épiceries offer a curated selection of the finest French products, allowing you to indulge in the best the country has to offer.
• Perfect for Gifts: Many items, such as artisanal chocolates, truffle products, and fine teas, make excellent gifts to bring home.
• Cultural Immersion: Shopping at these épiceries is a cultural experience in itself, offering a glimpse into the refined taste and culinary traditions of France.

• La Grande Epicerie Rive Gauche
• Galeries Lafayette Gourmet
• Eataly in the Marais have amazing authentic Italian selections. Their real Italian staff are a delight.

Grandes Epiceries offer a wide range of packaged food, upscale cuisine gift items and deli food to go. Be selective and do not buy at any corner shop.