As a foodie with a penchant for uncovering hidden culinary gems, I can say with certainty that Saint Marc is a true oasis for the discerning palate. This bustling coastal town, nestled along the stunning shores of the French Riviera, has long been a well-kept secret among in-the-know foodies, but its time to let the cat out of the bag.
Unearthing the Gourmet Ghetto of Saint Marc
Much like Berkeley’s renowned “Gourmet Ghetto,” Saint Marc boasts a thriving network of independent eateries, artisanal producers, and specialty shops that cater to the most dedicated of food enthusiasts. It’s a place where the boundaries between farm and table blur, and where every bite is a revelation.
One of the first stops on my culinary odyssey through Saint Marc was Saul’s Deli, a family-owned institution that has been serving up authentic New York-style delicacies for decades. As I stepped through the doors, the inviting aroma of house-smoked pastrami immediately transported me back to the glory days of old-school delis. The owner, Peter Levitt, greeted me warmly and proceeded to regale me with the fascinating history of the establishment – how it was founded by his grandparents with the mission of serving locally-sourced deli fare, in contrast to the ubiquitous practice of importing foods from the East Coast.
Discovering the Hidden Gems
But Saul’s Deli was just the beginning of my culinary adventure in Saint Marc. As I wandered the streets, I stumbled upon a veritable treasure trove of hidden gems, each with its own unique story and distinct flavor profile.
At the Epicurious Garden complex, I found myself immersed in a world of gastronomic delights. The Imperial Tea Court captivated me with its regal ambiance and a fascinating lecture on the history of tea, complete with a tasting of seven different varieties. But the real showstopper was Alegrio, a small-batch chocolatier that sources its cacao from the remote island of Sao Tome. The owner, Robbin Everson, expertly guided me through a sensory experience, revealing the nuances between bars ranging from 100% to 73.5% cacao. I was stunned to learn that Hershey’s bars contain a mere 10% cacao, and that chocolate’s stimulating effects are actually due to theobromine, not caffeine.
As I continued my culinary odyssey, I stumbled upon the Local Butcher Shop, where co-owner Monica Roccino shared her passion for whole-animal butchery and local sourcing. I was surprised to learn that the most “exotic” meat she carried was squab (pigeon), as the shop’s commitment to regional producers meant they only used animals raised within a 150-mile radius.
Savoring the Flavors of Saint Marc
But the gastronomic delights of Saint Marc didn’t stop there. I visited the Cheese Board Pizza Collective, a worker-owned cooperative inspired by the kibbutz model, and was treated to a slice of the day’s specialty – a delectable combination of zucchini, onions, mozzarella, feta, and basil pesto.
No visit to the Gourmet Ghetto would be complete without a stop at the original Peet’s Coffee, where I learned about the brand’s pioneering role in the gourmet coffee movement. Energized by the rich history and the caffeine boost, I strolled across the street to Vintage Wine, where owner Peter Eastlake guided me through a tasting of three exceptional wines from the nearby Healdsburg region.
A Sensory Delight for the Senses
As I wandered back through the streets of Saint Marc, my senses were in a state of euphoric overload. The aromas of freshly baked bread, simmering soups, and roasted coffee beans filled the air, while the vibrant colors of locally-grown produce and artisanal wares beckoned me to explore further.
It was on this final leg of my journey that I stumbled upon Lush, a gelateria that offered a sweet respite from the culinary whirlwind. As I savored the creamy, intensely-flavored gelato, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible diversity and passion that permeates the food scene in Saint Marc.
Uncovering the Heart and Soul of Saint Marc
What sets Saint Marc apart, in my opinion, is the authenticity and dedication of the people behind these establishments. From the Levitt family’s commitment to local deli fare to the Roccino’s whole-animal butchery ethos, every aspect of the food experience is infused with a genuine love for the craft. These are not just businesses, but rather expressions of passion, woven into the very fabric of the community.
As I bid farewell to Saint Marc, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and inspiration. This unassuming coastal town has unearthed a culinary treasure trove, one that challenges the notion of a “foodie’s paradise” and redefines the boundaries of what is possible when creativity, dedication, and a deep appreciation for local flavors converge.
If you’re a foodie in search of a true gastronomic adventure, I urge you to pack your bags and head to Saint Marc. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Discover the flavors of Saint Marc for yourself and embark on a culinary journey that will leave an indelible mark on your palate and your soul.
