Monday, October 5, 2009

Come Shopping.....Parisien Food Markets


There are street food markets all over Paris, that are open a few days a week. The vendors set up their stalls full of fresh and prepared food, fish, and meats. Flowers and herbs as well as some clothing, jewelry and kitchen wares are also offered. Last week my friend Debbie and her husband, Don and I went to the Grenelle market in Paris' 7th arondissement. It was a sunny fall morning and the crowds were out. We were greeted by fresh fish and seafood on ice.


Elbow to elbow, we were moved along by the sweet scent of fresh picked flowers.


I parted with some euro when I caught a whiff of dried herbs, oils and vinegars, and salt and pepper from the south of France.

There aren't many fruits or vegetables that are allowed back into the US, so we just admired their beauty and bounty.



Each one was more seductive than the next.
The bright and deep greens of the Romanesca, artichokes and cabbage, counterbalanced the creamy colors of the potatoes, pasta and cheese.
I'm not too sure though, that I could bring myself to have a taste of this bleu cheese from d'Augverge.

Black walnuts, hazelnuts and honey all complimented the many cheeses.

Tea and jam had fresh baked breads and pastries ready to be taken home with them.
Suddenly a loud "cock-a-doodle-doo" echoed under the tented roof. The animated butcher sang the song of the rooster, as he merrily prepared his goods for the waiting customers, on his well worn board. Trotters and tongues mingled with sausages, and hams.
Roasted whole chickens and freshly laid eggs,



could be taken home alongside prepared lentils with carrots, and rich Potatoes Dauphiois.


And, if all of those fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses and flowers aren't enough....at the end of the market you can buy some colorful lingerie. But, will you be able to fit into them after the prior indulgences?!


Bon Appetit!

Paris Street Markets locations and times.

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8 comments:

Kate at Serendipity said...

I LOVE markets! Thanks for the tour of this one. It's one I like to visit when I'm in Paris. AAAAaaahhhhh, now I'm happy....

La Table De Nana said...

I love markets moi aussi..I have never been to Paris so this one is different:) You must have the time of your life every time you go..I think you have fun w/ your job..instead of just doing your job..and I am very happy you show us all these things..who knows? Maybe one day I will go..and think of all your tips and tricks..It's nice of you to take the time..:)

Ju (The Little Teochew) said...

My first time at a Parisian Sunday market was waaaay back in the 80s, when I was about 8 years old. It was an eye opener - so many sights, sounds, smells. Back in those days, fruits like cherries, strawberries etc, were uncommon in Singapore, so I had a field day munching on these. Your post brings back many happy childhood memories :) Of course I later went back to Paris several times as an adult. But none as memorable as the first time. Wonderful post, great photos (each one more seductive than the next)!

Kathy @ Sweet Up-North Mornings... said...

Thank you for the tour....almost like being there in person...cheaper for sure!!! Lol, xoxo~Kathy @ Sweet Up-North Mornings...

2 Stews said...

Kate...glad to give you the tour! Each market is a little different, and all are so satisfying!

M...Yes, being able to see and experience different cultures is fascinating. And having it be your job is a bonus. I'm certain that one day you'll go to Paris and maybe you'll even be on one of my flights!

LT...I can only imagine the way you felt at 8 years old at these markets full of sights, sounds, tastes and smells that seemed so exotic. Lucky you!

Kathy..yes! No airfare for this market tour!! No calories either ;-))

Thanks to all for visiting....Diane

Linda@ Lime in the Coconut said...

Oooooooh! I love the paris markets...heck...I love EVERY market!

Great pictures!

Cathy said...

Paris markets are so wonderful. I can't walk through one without wanting to buy a bit of everything. Thanks for the lovely tour. What a magical city.

Ry @ Sotto Il Monte Vineyards said...

What a delight to see your beautiful photos of the Parisien Market.
Cheers!
Ry