Eat: Our Favorite Grocers in New York, Paris, and the Caribbean
Grocery Shopping is a Big Part of the Travel Experience.
One of the best things to do while traveling is popping into the local grocery store or food market to explore all of the (likely very different) foodstuffs on offer. It’s a way of getting a glimpse of the culture that no museum or restaurant will demonstrate. I particularly love the produce stands–getting to see what agriculture is in season, and I’m often baffled at what kinds of fruits or veg I’m looking at. If you’re lucky enough to have a proper kitchen in your accommodation, you could even take some with you to cook.
Moreover, a great grocery story will introduce you to foods you’ve never tried. Or elevated versions of something you already enjoy. They serve as an excellent souvenir shops too – I’m often bringing a sack of groceries home with me, for my kitchen, or gifts for friends and family. When I’m in Portugal, for example, I’m always bringing a stash of the local wines and olive oils. In Newfoundland last month, I brought dried herbs like juniper berries for my cocktail-loving friends.
A few of our favorite grocers in New York, Paris, and the Caribbean:
New York
Agata & Valentina - This New York City market is a local’s secret, as few tourists venture into the residential haunts of the Upper East Side’s 79th and 1st Avenue. But, the foodstuffs on offer are extraordinary – ranging from prepared foods, to their traditional Italian items. It’s so densely packed with products that it will take you easily an hour to see everything. My favorite: watching the cheese mongers hand roll fresh mozzarella, and then eating the warm bits of cheese right out of the package.
Paris
La Grande Epicerie and Fauchon - It goes without saying that food shopping in Paris would be a thing. These are two of their most iconic, luxury purveyors.
St. Barthelemy
American Gourmet - If you’re in Gustavia, the principal town of the Caribbean isle of St. Barthélemy, stop by this petite grocer whose main clients are the kitchens of the super yachts docked in the harbor. In fact, they call themselves “yacht provisioners.” It hosts the fanciest groceries I’ve ever seen: from olive oil caviar to the best vinegars, pastas, and more – every item is beautifully presented like a present.
St. Barths' American Gourmet; Paris' Fouchon; Paris' LGE. At top: Agata & Valentina, NYC.
Photo source: Saint-Barths.com, Potatomato, NY Post, LGE
Every publication will feature one unique restaurant, hotel, activity, or other travel discovery that stood out in our research. Some of these are established institutions that deserve repeat merit, while others are hidden gems that are often off the radar of most.
