
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Tucked away on a quiet corner near Arts et Métiers, Les Épiciers is the kind of place where you'll forget you're in the bustling Marais. Run by Pierre and Selim, two ex-finance guys who traded spreadsheets for wine bottles, this spot perfectly straddles the line between a fine grocery and a wine bar. Come for lunch with their generous sandwich or salad sets, then stick around for dinner when the real magic happens: those legendary charcuterie and cheese boards paired with a glass of something from a small French producer. It's warm, unpretentious, and feels like you've stumbled into someone's well-stocked kitchen.
Honest wines, generous boards, real warmth
Les Épiciers is a breath of fresh air in a neighborhood often overrun with tourist traps. The owners' passion for quality products shines through in every detail—from the carefully curated selection of charcuteries and cheeses to the rotating list of natural wines that change with the seasons. I've been coming here for lunch for years, and their sandwich sets are genuinely satisfying without being pretentious. But the real reason locals keep returning is the evening atmosphere: dim lighting, friendly service, and boards so generous you'll want to order two. It's not fancy, but it's honest, and that's rare these days.
The space itself is small and intimate, perfect for a quiet conversation or catching up with friends. You'll find yourself drawn to the wine recommendations from the staff—they clearly know their stuff and love sharing what they're excited about. The only minor downside? It can get crowded during peak hours, so if you want a table at dinner, arrive early or be prepared to wait. But honestly, even standing at the bar with a glass of wine and a board of cured meats is worth it. This is the kind of place that makes you feel like you've discovered something special.