Marché des Chefs

For nearly 40 years now, the Mailian family have been delighting party-goers in this warehouse (passed down from father to daughter) tucked away between Avenue Louise and Rue du Bailli, which comes across, wrongfully, as a cave of wonders destined only for professionals. A well-kept secret which, once exposed, grants you access to high-quality products: fine meats (wagyu, Angus, Aubrac, veal from Corrèze, lamb from the Pyrenees), caviar and homemade foie gras, wild fish (sometimes killed ikejime-style), outstanding charcuterie (like the Iberian Belotta ham aged for 48 months) and a cross-section of French AOC cheeses. Plus, you’ll also find eco-friendly produce, like some divine Noirmoutier potatoes, luxurious XXL white asparagus and even baskets from Alain Passard’s vegetable gardens. In the épicerie section, grab some Maison Marc cornichons, some very fine Acquerello rice, beautiful Morelli pasta… and for those with a sweet tooth, the unbeatable Normandy ice creams from Martine Lambert. // Alba Nebbioli

The hidden gem: The Jambillon des copains, an artisan Brusseleer ham made with Porc Qualité Ardennes, cured in the Cantillon, prepared by the Vermeire butchery, Hypacies farmers, chef Christophe Hardiquest and brewer Van Roy (€70/kg).