Summary
Are you a food enthusiast eager to sample all the myriad culinary specialties France has to offer (and beyond)? If so, a whirl at the Grande Epicerie, coveted by many as the “creme de la creme” of gourmet Paris food markets, is in order during your next trip to the French capital.
Part of the chic Bon Marché department store, this high-end supermarket is flush with gourmet and artisanal foodstuffs, from truffle oils and butter sauce in caviar to fresh pastries and luxury chocolates, countless varieties of cheese, fresh produce, and artisan teas: in short, anything and everything a food lover might dream up can be found under a single roof.
The “Haute Couture” Destination for Food Lovers?
It’s not an exaggeration to say that it’s a bit like a “haute couture” emporium of food: famous chefs and even fashion designers have put their names on some of the exclusive products and brands peddled at the Epicerie. Moreover, it is a favorite place to shop for the well-to-do residents of the St-Germain quarter.
This location is highly recommended for unique and luxurious gifts to take back home, making it one of the ideal places to shop for gifts in Paris.
Location and Contact Information
The high-end supermarket is located within the Bon Marché department store complex on the stately Rue de Sevres. Impossible to miss, the opulent buildings are nestled in the chic 7th arrondissement near the St-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood and the Musée d’Orsay; the Eiffel Tower lies not far to the southwest.
Address: 38 rue de Sevres, 7th arrondissement.
Metro: Sèvres-Babylone, Vaneau, or Rennes (Lines 10 or 12)
RER: Luxembourg (Line B) – around a 15-minute walk to the shop
Telephone: +33 (0)44 39 81 00 (main grocery store); +33 (0) 44 39 81 09 (catering service); +33 (0) 44 39 80 05 (wine department)
Visit the official website and online shop
Store Opening Hours:
Monday through Saturday: 8:30 am to 9:00 pm
Sunday: Closed
Shop Departments at La Grande Epicerie:
The Epicerie is divided into several specialty departments. The main aisles to explore include the following:
- Savory grocery: Find oils, vinegars, sauces, chutneys, pates, foie gras, luxury salts, and dried spices from top brands like Maison de la Truffe.
- Sweet grocery: Discover luxury-brand chocolates, jams, honey, and confectionary. Look for high-grade chocolates from brands such as Valhrona.
- Teas and Coffee: Connoisseurs will appreciate the selection from luxury French houses Mariage Freres and Kusmi Tea, alongside top-quality coffee.
- Wine shop: Explore a diverse selection of French and international wines, liqueurs, champagnes, and accessories in the cellar.
- Fresh produce: Experience the freshest seasonal produce sourced from local and European farmers.
- Cheese: Sample a wide variety of French and international cheeses cut fresh to order.
- Charcuterie: High-quality meats and a selection from the fishmonger next door.
- Bakery and patisserie: Indulge in freshly baked bread and luxury pastries from this section.
Delivery and Catering Services:
The Grande Epicerie’s deli (traiteur) offers delivery and catering services in France and ships dry and canned goods to most countries in Europe. Consequently, if suitcase space is limited but you want to send home a few prized products, this can be an excellent option.
Holiday Window Displays at the Market and Department Store:
The holiday decorations at La Grande Epicerie and the other buildings of the Bon Marché are always delightful and exquisitely displayed. They contribute to the festive spirit in Paris, with decorations starting from mid-November, coinciding with the annual unveiling of Christmas lights in the city.
