Our photographer accompanied a guided tour organized by the ICI (Institute of Islamic Cultures) to meet the vendors and inhabitants of the Goutte d'Or neighborhood of the 18th arrondissement.
An inspiring mix
Walking in front of the Échomusée of the Goutte d'Or, we stumbled upon this poster which perfectly illustrates the cosmopolitan nature of the neighborhood. Here, the air is perfumed with scents from around the world, an intoxicating mix that makes us want to discover more of the Goutte d'Or.
Our all-knowing guide
Hélène Tavera invited us for an unusual taste-test. All-knowing regarding the cuisine of Northern Africa and impassioned about culinary arts, she walked us through this rich culture. We whet our appetites by flipping through the recipe books of the neighborhood's inhabitants.
Dejean Market
Fish vendors, butchers, exotic fruit and vegetable stalls, all abuzz with the friendly atmosphere of the neighborhood. "Here, we're really in Africa!" explained our guide
Little Africa
The diversity of African fabrics sold on rue Poulet is a rainbow-colored treat for the eyes—with as many ethnicities and countries represented as there are hues. There are many tailor shops (just well hidden) to discover in the Goutte d'Or.
"Table ouverte" at the ICI
The "Table Ouverte" is the name of the restaurant and tea salon at the Institute of Islamic Cultures. Unexpected from the exterior, here visitors can sample excellent tajine accompanied by bissap juice (a type of hibiscus). All foodies with a sweet tooth will be tempted by their delicious eastern-style pastries.
The Parisian Farm
Mohamed Belarrbie took over the family business founded by his grandfather. This unique spot in Paris is the last place where you can buy live poultry and rabbits—and by noon, he sells out of fresh eggs every day!
Baobab bonbons
Those with a sweet tooth will love the taste of the baobab fruit, that you suck on like candy or dissolve to make baobab juice. It's a treat that's rich in vitamin C!
Cantine Myhra
This vegan restaurant is 100% organic and 100% homemade, and will make a convert of anyone to cafeteria-style food—patrons are as enchanted by the décor as the freshness of the meals. Don't miss the Sunday brunch: it's a delicious treat, served with fresh juice.
A taste of Casamance, Senegal in Paris
The Mad, the fruit with yellow-orange pulp, is also very rich in vitamin C. With it you can make jam, or eat it plain or sprinkled with sugar or pepper.
A place of exchange
Tarek Benaoum contemplates the mural he designed overhanging the patio of the Café of the Institut of Islamic Culture, on rue Léon. It's a fitting place of exchange, between the exhibitions, shared meals, pétanque games, or theme nights.
Find out more:
-Institute of Islamic Culture: this hybrid place, established between the Stephenson and Léon buildings, demystifies Islamic art from around the world from Africa to Asia. It hosts a rich program of exhibitions, events, meetings, guided visits of the neighborhood, as well as acts as a place of sharing around the patio of the rue Léon.
By Pascale Béroujon
Reporter photographer. Passionate about travel and encounters, she travels the world for the Travel & Lifestyle press. She is also the author of many beautiful travel books. Her eye is set on everyday life, people and the aesthetics created by the environment.
