Snapshots: Monsieur Marcel

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The Original Farmer’s Market at 3rd and Fairfax is home to gourmet market, Monsieur Marcel and accompanying authentic petit bistro, Pain Vin et Fromage. This French-American dream come true is that of Stephane Strouk and his wife Katy. “If you never try, you’ll never know,” says Stephane.

Monsieur Marcel showcases a wide selection of domestic and imported artisanal products. Open a freezer door to find Ben & Jerry’s next to foie gras. Look on a shelf and see Best Foods mingling with Benedicta. Pick up a bottle of something French and bubbly or go for a Monster. The choice is there. And as Stephane says, “If you never try, you’ll never know.” And never having tried the French bistro experience Executive Chef Carlos Sanchez creates at Pain Vin et Fromage, I had to know.

Feel like a kid. Act like a grown-up. The First Course Orange Heirloom Tomato Soup, Baked Brioche Toast, Brie Couronne, Basil Oil pairs with Domaine de Brigue Cotes de Provence Rosé, 2009.

The Breakfast of Champions Salads. Frisee aux Lardons, Bacon-Truffle Vinaigrette, Baby Heirloom Tomatoes, 6 Minute Egg, Piment D’espelette Pepper pairs with Madiran Domaine Pierre Laplace Southwest France, 2009.

Crispy skin for the win! Red Snapper Duo: Tartare and Pan-Seared, Lemon Olive Oil, Fleur De Sel, Yuzu Chimichurri Sauce pairs with Quincy “Vignobles des Coudereaux” Loire, 2010.

I moved your cheese. Select domestic and foreign cheeses: Ulivio, Genievre des Cremiers, Brie de Meaux, P’tit Espelette, Cantalet, Cabra al Vino, Robiola pairs with Domaine du Petit Romain Costières de Nimes Rhone, 2007.

Taste the rainbow. A few small plates of Macaroons placed in the middle of the table indicate our meal is coming to a close. And not just one, but two dessert courses. Three if you count these colorful, sweet treats. Chateau Bernadou Muscat de Frontignan Languedoc pairs with both desserts.

Never Rub Another Man’s Rhubarb. Rhubarb Panna Cotta is fresh and delicate.

If you don’t try, you’ll never know. A few nibbles at the Nutella Bread Pudding and I wave my white napkin in the air.

Espresso. And now I know… you ought to go.

Special thanks to Stephane & Katy Strouk, Monsieur Marcel; Pierre Truyoo, Tru Wines; Diana Hossfeld, Katie Conway, Bread & Butter PR.