I’ll be in Paris in June (solo) and planning on doing several picnics. While I’m accustomed to buying, for example, 100 grams of ham at a shop, wondering if there are places that sell either pre-packaged mini charcuterie servings, or if it’s possible/not rude to ask for “1 slice” of several things at meat/cheese counter in a grocery? FWIW, I’m staying in the 5th.
Thanks for any tips!
Posted by
Savannah, GA
1337 posts
At Monprix you can find some little pre-made packs. Don't be afrad to try a nice terrine de campagne as well.
At a chacturerie they might be slightly irked if you're getting so little, but you never know. Explain you're going on a picnic and just want an array of choices for one.
Posted by
2363 posts
"Don't be afrad to try a nice terrine de campagne"
Mark me down for a Rabbit Terrine.
My experience has been hit and miss - try to go at less busy times and watch the clerks for a bit and see if you can pick out one that has been patient serving other customers.
Posted by
752 posts
La Grande Épicerie de Paris (38 rue de Sèvres across from the Bon Marche department store) often has small trays of mixed cheese wedges, and small trays of mixed charcuterie slices, suitable for 1-2. They are catering to the young single professional crowd shopping after work. It’s a small enough serving that it should be ok for one as lunch.
If you have a minibar in your hotel room, of course, everything would be easier.
Posted by
France Southwest
1821 posts
Please, do me a favor, don't go buy pre-packaged charcuterie in Monoprix or other supermarkets!!
Unless of course if you like the taste of the different chemical additives that are there :)
You can go to any traditional Charcuterie or "Boucherie-Charcuterie" (you will find some in the 5th)
You can ask for just one slice of ham (Une Tranche) or two or three or whatever you want, you will be asked for the thickness. (Epaisseur).
The same for terrines or other pâtés or sausages and pretty much everything you'll see in the shop.
Posted by
OP
Charlotte, NC, USA
380 posts
Thanks everyone for your ideas!
Yes, I’m very familiar with Bon Marche.
Love the suggestion to make sure I don’t make request during a busy time for staff! Definitely would prefer fresh vs. prepackaged so will try that.
Posted by
Paris
6905 posts
I'd say, don't overthink it... A quiet charcuterie won't scold you for asking 2 slices of ham and a few other things. And even if they do, they'll still serve you, even if begrudgingly... I would certainly not make the trek to Bon Marché if it's not close to you.
By the way, Monoprix stores have both prepackaged stuff and staffed counters. Staffed counters are usually pretty quiet, and they do sell good stuff, even though some of it will be mass-produced.