There are many Italian delicatessens in Paris but there are very few who have such high-quality products as the RAP Épicerie.
Alessandra Pierini arrived in Paris in 2010 and her mission was to source the best of Italy and bring it to France. Still independent, she currently stocks over 1000 products, purchased directly from more than 300 different producers all over Italy.
In a space that is barely larger than a shoebox, you will find what is, without a doubt, the best selection of extra virgin olive oils, vinegars, condiments, jams, sauces and tipo 00 flour in Paris… You’ll find a range of fresh pasta, home-made lasagne (well, made on-site), Italian cheeses and cured meats to die for. To satisfy any sugar cravings, you can stock up on panforte, panettone and chocolate.
That’s before you go downstairs. There you’ll find an enormous selection of wines – everything from Prosecco through to Passito. As with the food upstairs, Alessandra only works with small producers and everything is utterly delicious.

As a quick side note, Alessandra has also established herself as a leader on Italian cuisine in France. As well as having written three books (on polenta, parmesan and smoke, if you’re interested), she is often to be found talking on the radio about pesto or judging culinary competitions.
N.B. Let it be known that I first met Alessandra in a professional capacity, but there is nothing in this blog post that I would not stand by any day of the week.
Essential Information
Address: 4 rue Fléchier, 75009
Telephone: 01 42 80 09 91
Website: RAP Épicerie, Facebook
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10h30 – 19h30 and Sunday morning from 10am til 1pm.