I hadn’t thought that this high temple of food in Paris, otherwise known as La Grande Épicerie, needed any sprucing up. But it has undergone a major redo. After 18 months of renovation, the new look was unveiled this past December. In January I went to check it out. And sure enough the gourmet food hall is gleaming more brightly than ever.
New look at La Grande Épicerie
A glass-domed cupola brings extra light and airiness into the space. And revamped lighting fixtures augment the effect.
La Grande Épicerie had a mind-boggling assortment before, and now the offerings have grown even broader. There’s a new section filled with books and kitchen gadgets that are nearly as tempting as the edible offerings.
Books and kitchen gadgets
Shelves have been reconstructed and rearranged. La Grande Épicerie stocks foods from all over the world, including items likely to satisfy the homesick yearnings of those whose taste buds weren’t developed in France.
But the majority of space is devoted to high-quality foods that the French are well known for and that can be found in the traditional markets in Paris.There’s a boucherie, fromagerie, boulangerie, poissonnerie, and more.
Butcher shop at La Grande Épicerie
cheeses galore
Fruits and vegetables make a striking display, evoking the market stalls of Paris. Knowledgeable staff are trained to assist customers and refresh the inventory.
Abundant fresh produce
A new escalator leads to a well-stocked wine cellar in La Cave.
Wine Cave at La Grande Épicerie
The restaurant Balthazar offers respite next to the wines. Or ride upwards, above the market, to La Table de la Grande Épicerie. This eatery features chef Jean-Jacques Massé who has earned the distinction of being a Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF).
Personally, I enjoyed pausing at a kiosk where I could pull up a stool and soak up the sounds and sights while relaxing with some charcuterie accompanied by a glass of wine.
La Grande Épicerie is part of Bon Marché department store, located on the Left Bank in the 7th arrondissement. This epicurean haven has long been a major draw for foodies. Now that it’s gussied up, it’s likely to attract even more.
A somewhat similar option is available on the Right Bank in Lafayette Gourmet, inside the Galeries Lafayette department store. See the related posts below for more info.
Have you been to the newly remodeled La Grande Epicerie? If so, what’s your opinion of it? I’d love to read your comments!
Details:
La Grande Épicerie is at Bon Marché department store. Located at 38, rue de Sèvres (near rue du Bac) in the 7th arrondissement.
Open Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am – 9 pm.
Métro: Sèvres-Babylone
Related posts:
Lafayette Gourmet Settling into Its New Home
The Best Gourmet Food Halls in Paris
La Grande Épicerie
Galeries Lafayette Gourmet Food Hall
Paris Food Markets: What Are the Different Types?