Vegetarian Experiences in Paris » markets

Upcoming farmers’ market in the 12th arr.

Ted — Thu, 13 May 2010 13:53:51 +0000

I’ve mentioned my love for Paris markets many times. While the weekly farmers’ markets are always worth visiting; I especially enjoy the special markets for produce and items from around the country.

There’s a Marché des Producteurs de Pays scheduled for May 22 and 23 in the 12th arr. It’s conveniently located between metros Daumesnil and Dugommier.

Keep an eye out for socks and blankets from angora sheep, dandelion wine, sheep’s milk soap, regional cheese and cookies, and buy a hunk of bread from the 3 feet wide circles.

Marché des Producteurs de Pays, 21 et 22 NOVEMBRE 2009

Ted — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:15:46 +0000

I love the Marché des Producteurs de Pays in Paris. This is your opportunity to buy products directly from the farmers, artisans, and craftsmen from around the French countryside.

I especially like the angora socks, aligot, candles, and specialty baked goods. You’ll also find great deals on holiday presents, such as local wine, cheeses, and hand-crafted goods.

The next market will be November 21 and 22 in the 12th arr. on Boulevard de Reuilly. This is a good sized market and you should find plenty of goodies to eat and enjoy.

A pesto pasta with Alsatian Riesling (themanfrommoselriver.wordpress.com)

Aligot in Paris – Aveyron festival October 9-11, 2009

Ted — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 07:02:58 +0000

Don’t miss the Aligot festival this weekend in the 12th arr. near Park de Bercy. To be fair, it’s not just aligot but also a celebration of the Aveyron region of France. The Marché des Pays de l’Aveyron festival takes place October 9-11, right in front of my favorite cafe, the Parisian Sweet Bar.

Aligot is a stringy white cheese that is laboriously stirred with potatoes to create a heavenly, yet very filling dish. It’s a rich mashed potato dish that makes even the sturdiest potluck bowls of Alabama pale in contrast. After all, the region is known for its hardy, rustic cuisine.

This is also a great time to sample and purchase confiture, honey, and other local products. I always keep an eye out for socks and other items made from the Angora goats. These regional festivals are perfect for tourists in Paris that are looking for a quick shopping/eating excursion. Wine lovers can find wonderful bottles that are impossible to find back home. They are free to join and you can expect ample samples and smiles.

Just try to look past the fois gras, sausages, and other meaty products.

Places I still want to visit in Paris

Ted — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 09:51:58 +0000

I will be leaving Paris in August, 09. My employer is shutting down their engineering in the Paris office and I’ll be heading back to California. I’m trying to make the most of the remaining weeks, mostly by leaving the city and visiting other countries in Europe.

I’ve been saving magazines and web sites for places I’d like to visit before I leave. i’ve been meaning to make a list that I can update as needed. This seems like as good a place as any to start it.

Jacques new restaurant: La Bélière. I’ve already written about my favorite chef. He’s got a new restaurant and Jazz bar. I’m planning on going this week to see his latest creations. review coming soon
Rungis market, the largest market in Europe. It’s a massive distribution center for all kinds of produce, cheese, meat, and fish from around the world. This is where restaurants, market sellers, and stores go to get their supplies. It’s open to the public, but fruits and vegetables are only sold on week days.I will be visiting Rungis soon with the owner of Paris Sweet Bar cafe as a guide.
Dans Le Noir: the restaurant where you eat in total darkness.
L’Atlantide: supposedly the best couscous in Paris. I’ve been told they have good vegetarian options.
I’ve been holding on to an old Air France magazine filled with addresses for Indian restaurants and shops in Paris. Dishny and Krishna Bhavan on rue Cail both sound inviting. New Review: Petite Mumbai de Paris
I also have an old Gourmet Magazine (September 2008) with some great ideas: 11/12th arrindissements, 19th/20th arrindissements, 10th arrindissement by Alexander Lobrano

An appetite for Paris (boston.com)

Le Fierbois Yogurt

Ted — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 11:48:55 +0000

Last week I noticed a small bottle of Lemon Le Fierbois yogurt in the fromagerie stand at my local market. In a fit of whimsy, I added it to my order. It sat in my fridge for a few days and I remembered it while looking for breakfast yesterday.

This was an eye opener! I’ve had premium yogurts before. In the US, they are typically creamier and the fruit is not swimming in a sugar sauce. But nothing like this yogurt. It has bite. It has character. It has chunks of lemon peel and fruit.

Needless to say, this yogurt is filled with taste.

It comes directly from the farms of Touraine, in the Loire Valley. You can purchase this online from FoundIt4Food in the UK. Expect to pay around 1.10 Euros at your local fromagerie in France.

I also like the glass bottles with resealable lids. These will be great for water jars while painting in the field.