Picnic Picks for 14 Juillet
Sunday marks the 230th anniversary of the Prise de la Bastille, the event that turned the tide towards revolution in France. It’s looking like a perfect day to lounge and picnic on the Champs de Mars, where, on that day, the Royal Army famously did not intervene with the insurrection. We’ve got the picks to keep you and your picnic blanket covered. Paris is largely closed on Sunday, so stock up on Saturday.
And, of course, catch the fireworks at 11pm on Sunday.
Mapping our your day
(1) First Stop: It’s in the bag
A bookshop may seem an odd choice to being your picnic procurement, but hear me out. You’re about to buy a lot of food. And you’re going to need to carry that food. AND you’re going to be laying about for hours before the fireworks so you’ll need some entertainment. Enter, 7L, an unexpected slice of the legacy of the incomparable Karl Lagerfeld. Here you’ll find a curated selection of books highlighting (but not limited to) photography and design, as well as the pièce de résistance: a deceptively spacious bag capable of toting the book you won’t be able to leave without and all the to-be-purchased delectables.
(2) Macarons on deck at Secco
Yes, you need macarons, and yes, these are some of the very best in Paris. The scrumptious salted butter macarons prepared here might win for our city favorite. And while you’re there, try the signature orange and raisin sablé (butter) biscuits, or for those with a savory tooth, the puff pastry pizzas or soft paninis.
(3) Savory bakes at Bread and Roses
You’ve got your sweets so advance on to Bread and Roses to pick up a Brioche à l’ancienne (arguably Paris’ finest) and quiche. No judgment if you buy an extra one (or two) to sustain you as you shop.
(4) Pad your wares at La Grande Épicerie
Now we’re getting somewhere. If nothing else, you’re going to need some jam for that brioche in your bag. Do yourself the favor of seeking out the confiture from Mallorca lemons by Oorain.
But why stop there? You’re in a culinary Mecca. Wine, cheese, olives, chocolate, fruit and more are all at your fingertips.
Just remember: you’ve got one more stop today…
(5) Closing with charcuterie
Nicolas Arnaud is reinventing charcuterie for the 21st century, and it’s a must for your festivities tomorrow. The items available change frequently, but don’t fret, everything on offer is can’t-miss.
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