A Fork And A Suitcase

There is a set rhythm to every one of my stays in Paris.  I land, check into the rented apartment, and within an hour I am making my way down rue de Sevres to do some food shopping at La Grand Epicerie.  I buy all of our essentials there: butter, pate, cheese, lox, yogurt, tea, some produce (most will be purchased at a street market), and drinks.  In 1852, Aristide Boucicaut created the world's first department store, La Bon Marche.  He transformed a simple stall into a department store selling a wide variety of items - a model that would soon be copied all over the world. In 1923, a food counter was added which offered fine teas and preserves.  La Grand Epicerie de Paris opened its doors in 1978, and it soon became one of the capital's finest food stores. I have been shopping At La Grand Epicerie for over 10 years and have seen it go through many changes, and upgrades.  The store of today, after 18 months of renovations, is vastly different from the one I remember from

I love produce markets in Paris, they are colorful, beautiful and exciting.  They are not only a wonderful opportunity to buy farm fresh produce but a glimpse into the lives of real Parisians.  A chance to see them in their element, observe how they shop, what they buy, and how they buy it.  Most people shopping at this market seem to be regulars; they know the vendors, the product, and are quick and to the point.  There are some who just browse, walk around to assess the inventory, but most know what they came here for and don't dilly dally too much.  Tourists, like me, are easily spotted as well.  We are the ones with the camera, walking slower than others, and having a look of amazement on our faces.  There are produce markets in the U.S., however, they are not as beautiful as the French markets.  That's just a sad truth.  This organic market of about 40 vendors is beautiful and lively.  Raspail market is the perfect place to pick up a roasted chicken, cheese, veggies, fr