Markets of Provence: A Culinary Tour of Southern France

...but isn't that what most of us have been from time to time? And this one is not so much a guide as a wonderful enticement to enjoy one of the best aspects (the food) of one of the loveliest places on earth. The central theme is that it is possible to enjoy a market each day of the week, by moving from town to town in Provence. The seven markets that are covered are in Cadenet, La Tour D'Aigues, Saint-Remy, Aix, Bonnieux, Apt, and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. About half of the 130 pages are pictures, a few "snap-shots" that capture the action, most are carefully composed, and a few are truly evocative, like the basin of Cucuron on page 30. Each picture saves those proverbial 1000 words The book commences with a forward by Patricia Wells, the indomitable former food editor of the International Herald Tribune. The style of writing is fashioned for the tourist, struggling with strange French words, and concepts. There are numerous recipes, so that those with their own facilities can enjoy their purchases in delightful consumption. There are other sidebars that explain unique aspects of the country, such as the bread, truffles, Provencal fabrics, pottery, etc. There are several practical appendixes which cover other markets, seasonal specialties, typical foods, with the French explained, useful phrases, a conversion chart, a glossary, a listing of selected restaurants, and a brief suggested reading list. I've been to the markets in five of these seven towns, have enjoyed them all, and feel that their description in the book captures their spirit accurately. My next to favorite market is the one in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, where I have been innumerable times. The picture of the Café De France on page 115 brings back many memories, of having a beer with the boys "while the women finish." And it evokes anticipation... I'll be there again in a few days. The very best part of the book though is its omission! My very favorite market, a gentle 300 meter stroll from the gite we rent - may its relative obscurity remain, as well as the lack of cameras and English. `Cause you only go around once in life...

This book is a lovely guide for those who plan to travel to Provence as well as those who cannot. It is lovely - just lovely. Beautiful photographs, wonderful insights and descriptions off the beaten path. I high recommend this book.

If you or anyone you know plans a trip to Provence, make sure this book goes too! It is an excellent guide to the wonderful Provencal outdoor markets. If you want to experience Provence at its finest, this is one of the very best guide. Full of gorgeous color photos, this is a beautiful as well as helpful book. After the trip, it is wonderful to go through the book again and savor all of the great memories. For the finest produce, cheese and other delights of the South, this book is a must have!

This excellent book was in the kitchen of a house we rented a couple of years ago in Caromb, northeast of Avignon. Not only were the lists of daily markets invaluable, but the recipe for quails with spring onions on tapenade-covered croutons, for example, allowed us to make good use of local products. (With all those fabulous tapenades available at market, I did not make my own, as the recipe suggests.) Patricia Wells's introduction reminds you of her own invaluable guides to food throughout France, and her inspiration and influence are apparent throughout the book -- the level of knowledge, enthusiasm, and appreciation for the wonders of Provençal food is engaging and contagious. The illustrations remind you of places you've been away from too long and get the juices flowing for a return visit for markets you missed the last time.

My cousin and I just returned from a 9-day trip to Southern France. Our highlights can all be found in this wonderful book. We met Henri Tomas and taste-tested and approved the Galette specialty of the house; taste-tested and brought back many bottles of wine from Chateau La Canorgue. We followed the suggestions and pretty much made the rounds to all of the sites. Our last evening in Provence, we sampled the goat cheese, bread from Henri Tomas' patisserie and the wine...we added our own Picheline olives and fresh market tomatoes to make our meal complete...what a last supper to have in France. Joy of Life, Indeed!!!!!! Thanks for making our trip a 10++++++.