Okay, I admit it: my visit to the Maille Mustard Emporium (23, Rue Francois Jacob) in Paris came from watching Andrew Zimmern’s show. Good show, though I’m not sure I could eat some of the things he does. That said, his visit here intrigued me and I happen to like good mustards…
So I dragged my hosts out and had a pleasant discovery concerning another store, but that’s for another post. It took a little walking around the square to find, but was well worth the walk. Despite trying to save money for other things, the selection was amazing and the fresh mustard on tap enticing. To put it mildly.
You have the chance to try about four different mustards at any given time, pulled up via mustard engines (just like real ale/beer engines) into small crocks. The choice of bread works well for the tasting, as it provides some substance without overpowering the taste of the mustard
While I did not get to see the engines in use, I made use of the products and then proceeded to shop. I must admit, I came back with roughly a dozen jars of diffent products. While best known in the U.S. for mustard, they also do pickles, and pickles in Europe mean more than just dill. I brought back several small jars of tampenade to try, and enjoyed them until the death of my refrigerator robbed me of them and some other delights.
I am taking my time working through the jars of mustard, and have several more awaiting trial. I have particularly enjoyed one made with cognac, and used it with great success to do a mustard coated chicken breast.
If you are in Paris, and need or want an interesting break from business, this store can be both tasty and fun. Prices are reasonable, and care is needed such that you don’t find yourself trying to pad multiple jars in your suitcase so as to survive the baggage smashers. It can be done (I find wrapping in dirty laundry makes good padding), but buyer beware for it is easy to get carried away.
For more on travel and food in France, check out:
Getting Around Paris
Food in France: An Introduction
One of Two Favorite Meals
Random Salads
Chocolate
Le Peres et Filles
Not in France, but Fleur de Lys
