Gourmet picnic in Paris: the perfect food shopping list

Introduction

For many people, a picnic in Paris is the ultimate way to relax and enjoy a gourmet meal.

But to make sure your picnic meal is as delicious as it can be, you have to be prepared! That means having all the right ingredients to create a menu that will satisfy the most discerning foodie.

So what are the essential ingredients you need to create a delicious gourmet picnic in Paris?

What you should definitely include in your ultimate shopping list for a picnic are cheese, bread, charcuterie and pastries of course!

But what else can you bring?

Let’s take a closer look at each of these ingredients and how you can use them to create the perfect picnic in Paris.

Cheese

A gourmet picnic in Paris wouldn’t be complete without cheese!

Include a variety of French-style cheeses that reflect the country’s diverse food culture.

For a classic taste, try a Comté from the Franche-Comté region or Sainte-Maure de Touraine from the Loire valley.

To keep things light, opt for a French style goat cheese like a Crottin de Chavignol.

And of course, you cannot visit France without eating the king of the French cheeses: a Camembert!

With so many delicious options, every cheesemonger in Paris will be delighted to recommend the perfect cheese for your picnic.

Bread and pastries

When packing up your gourmet picnic for an outing in Paris, it is essential to include a selection of bread and pastries.

Choose a variety of crusty baguettes, as well as some pastries like croissants and brioche.

Macarons are a traditional French pastry and make a great addition to a picnic in Paris.

Add a selection of soft cheeses and condiments like honey, jams, and butter to spread on your bread and pastries.

Enjoy getting creative and purchase a variety of flavors to add a delicious element of surprise to your gourmet picnic.

Meats, pâté and charcuterie

When planning your perfect picnic in Paris, the meats and charcuterie should be at the top of your shopping list.

A traditional French picnic will generally include saucisson, a type of spicy dried sausage, along with some choices of pâté.

If you are feeling adventurous, some unusual options such as jambon persillé, pâté en croûte and foie gras can also be found at many specialty stores around the city. You can also find some cured meats, such as jambon de montagne.

If you are looking for something lighter, smoked salmon, canned sardines and pickled herring are classic options for a picnic in Paris.

Sauces and condiments

A gourmet picnic in Paris wouldn’t be complete without sauces and condiments to elevate the flavors of the dishes.

Popular choices for a Parisian picnic include Dijon mustard, cornichons and aioli or garlic mayo. You may also consider bringing a jar of tomato sauce, some capers, and black olives. Don’t forget a jar of honey, balsamic vinegar, salted butter and extra-virgin olive oil.

These items will add a layer of flavor to your Parisian picnic.

Wine, beer and spirits

If you are looking to enjoy a gourmet picnic in Paris, be sure to include some local wines, beers and spirits.

French wines are often high-quality and come in a wide range of styles, including red, white, rosé, and sparkling. Additionally, consider opting for some of the country’s well-known breweries, such as Kronenbourg or Bière de Ménilmontant.

If you want to really get into the spirit of Paris, consider bringing some spirits such as pastis or Calvados for mixed drinks. With these additions, you can make your picnic in Paris even more enjoyable.

Desserts

When it comes to a gourmet picnic in Paris, the desserts should not be forgotten.

Include a variety of French sweet treats and pastries, such as macarons, éclairs, and (fruit) tarts. Choose an assortment of flavors from a local patisserie. Be sure to also include fruits, like juicy melons, sweet grapes and crunchy apples.

Finish off your picnic with a bottle of champagne or a bottle of chilled French rosé. With these sweet treats, your gourmet picnic in Paris is guaranteed to be a success!

Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks

When planning for a picnic in Paris, it is important to include snacks to keep everyone energized and hydrated.

For snacks, include some French specialties such as a baguette, fruit tarts and macarons. A variety of vegan and vegetarian-friendly snacks such as cheese plates, vegetable spreads, and hummus are also great additions.

For drinks, don’t forget to bring some refreshing drinks like sparkling water or spritzers. These will help to keep your guests hydrated while they enjoy their picnic in Paris.

Fruit and Vegetables

When gathering your ingredients for a gourmet picnic in Paris, you’ll want to include a selection of freshly picked fruits and vegetables.

While the exact selection of produce may depend on what is in season during your visit, some popular choices include tomatoes, figs and grapes.

To add some depth of flavor, some savory options like olives, radishes and onions are also great to include. Of course, all of these ingredients should be freshly sourced from the local market or food vendor.

Perfect picnic spots

Paris is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, making it the perfect city for a picnic.

The Champ de Mars, located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, offers stunning views of the iconic landmark. The Jardin des Tuileries, located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, is a popular spot for picnics and relaxing. The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, Bois de Vincennes, and Square du Vert-Galant are also great options for a peaceful and memorable picnic experience.

With so many beautiful spots to choose from, a picnic in Paris is a must-do activity for any visitor.

Conclusion

After a delightful gourmet picnic in Paris, you are now ready to explore the rest of the city and all its other culinary offerings.

From the world-renown wines and cheese, to the freshly baked breads and pastries, to the fresh meats and charcuterie, there is something for everyone.

Add to this the wonderful sauces and condiments, and you’ve got the perfect meal. Don’t forget to take your snacks, drinks, and desserts – they all help to make the experience more memorable. And don’t forget to pick up your fruit and vegetables on the way out of town.

Paris is a city of culture, beauty, and delicious cuisine – and there is no better way to enjoy it than with a gourmet picnic in the Paris sun!

Bon appétit!