Paris has many beautiful public squares (‘place’ in French), but none more attractive to lovers of good food and drink than the one built around the imposing 19th century neoclassical Madeleine Church (L’église Sainte-Marie-Madeleine). Ringed with gorgeous, indulgent food shops, Place de la Madeleine is always my first stop in Paris. Whether I want to eat, drink, or just browse … here are five of my must-visit shops around this elegant place.
Fauchon
www.fauchon.com
From the humble origins of a fruit and vegetable cart in the late 1800s, grew one of the world’s most beautiful food stores. Every item looks like a work of art: pastries, chocolates, deli items and a lunch counter full of ready-to-go gourmet snacks. With the gorgeous tea and gift store across the road, Fauchon holds pride of place on Place de la Madeleine.
Nicolas
www.nicolas.com
I love strolling around a good bottle shop, exploring affordable local wines and, in this case, visiting the downstairs cave to dream about grand crus I’m rarely likely to taste. When there’s a good bistro upstairs I’m even happier – the great-value daily menu includes the likes of duck confit and pear tart.
Caviar Kaspia
www.caviarkaspia.com
Browse the caviars, smoked fish, vodka and beautiful accoutrements (from mother of pearl spoons to Limoges caviar capsules modelled on Russian dolls), then head up to the charming dining room and splash out on caviar or just soak up the ambience and enjoy more affordable smoked salmon, sturgeon or trout.
Maison de la Truffe
www.maison-de-la-truffe.com
From the moment you open the door, there’s no mistaking what this little shop is all about – truffles, fresh and mixed into every foodstuff imaginable! Friendly staff offer a whiff of damp sea salt infused with truffles and a taste of truffle-scented nuts, while the daily set menu is a very affordable indulgence.
Mariage Frères
www.mariagefreres.com
I adore the row upon row of black tea canisters on elegant wooden shelving, the most beautiful collection of samovars, tea pots and cups from around the world, and occasional bursts of brightly coloured tea tins. Although their Place de la Madeleine store offers the widest selection of tea there’s nothing to eat here, but their other Paris outlets include restaurants and tearooms.
Updated 11 July 2020
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