Summer in Provence: A Taste of the Town at L’Epicerie

August 1, 2012 2:38 pm

When I venture into my hometown of Aix to grab a bite midday, I head straight to L’Epicerie, my go-to restaurant for a light lunch…

The food is Provençal with a touch of international, so dishes like a delicious Thai Salad might be included among the daily specials on the blackboard menu. I recently ate there with Shirin and my son Alexander and had the most fantastic tomato and cucumber salad with local red onions and a tartine of legumes, eggplant and goat cheese.  And for all of you dessert lovers: L’Epicerie’s lemon meringue pie is arguably the best in the world.  We always finish lunch with an espresso and kick back and enjoy the relaxed pace and low-key surroundings.  

The golden sunlight in the small square is so beautiful and inspiring. Aix is a fountain-filled town, and L’Epicerie makes clever use of a nearby one to chill its bottles of rosé wines.  

The store inside the restaurant is a culinary treat, as well. I visited with my friend (and renowned chef) Daniel Boulud, who was blown away by the shop’s offerings. Stocked with over 100 varieties of olive oil, the most amazing spices and scrumptious cookies, it is a foodie’s paradise.  My favorite touch? The floor, laid with colorful, intricately designed Provençal tiles that pop when you step inside the store.  

I will be sharing more of my top shops in Provence soon. Stay tuned…