High on convivial ambiance and local flavour, low on food miles and price, head to Calais’ district markets on Saturday mornings instead of le supermarché
The novelty of French supermarkets or ‘hypermarkets’ has long been A Thing for visitors but now that we all like to purchase more responsibly, it’s good to know that there’s a more sustainable and authentic food shopping experience to be had at Calais’ vibrant open-air markets in town. They’ll completely change your view of Calais, all too often overlooked.
If you’re near the seafront (maybe to see Calais’ new firebreathing dragon attraction?), try the traditional market at nearby Place d’Armes. Spot local lady Yvonne de Gaulle with hubbie Charles plus the 13th-century watchtower and impressive modernist ‘Halles’ (Calais’ newest food and events venue) before a lunch of local specialities at a reputable restaurant such as Le Channel or La Sole Meunière .
There’s a bustling market at Place Crèvecoeur too. Known for its high quality local produce, it’s obvious from the place-names of stalls - ‘Charcuterie-des-2-Caps’ (cold meats from the nearby white cliffs area) and ‘Ferme-de-Wint’ (farmhouse cheese from nearby Brunembert including Tome made with their own orchard’s cider) ─ that local people like local food.
Fashions, accessories and homewares are also here, and since Calais is known for its prestigious lace (the Duchess of Cambridge had local lace in her wedding dress, don’t you know), browse market fabrics and visit Cité-de-la-Dentelle’s lace boutique before you head homeward over the Channel.
Useful information
Tourist Board Information of Calais
12 Boulevard Georges Clemenceau
F-62100 Calais
Tel: +33 3 21 96 62 40
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