Where's my clone when I need her? I am pining for a trip to Brisbane, to visit the Village Imports warehouse sale starting tomorrow. Sausages, wine, oils, vinegars, herbs, lemonade, cured meats, alcoholic cider, chocolates, and cheeses, come to Momma!
One tip I picked up from my last shopping excursion there? On Friday, it's possible to "beat the crowds" by hitting the warehouse after 5 p.m. A super helpful clerk told me that everyone rushes on Friday to be there between 2 to around 4:45 p.m., and after that, it is more of a breeze. Less of a wait in line (wear a wool beret and bring an intellectual book or newspaper to really fit in), fewer people, all around better. The problem of 280 or 101 traffic once you pay and load up your car? Well, you'll just have to eat a cheese and chocolate snack before you hit the road. Believe me, it is worth the time and traffic to get all that Euro loot.
Below is the text of an email Village Imports sent me.
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Dear Mary
Just a friendly reminder that Made in France / Village Imports
is holding a gourmet food and wine warehouse sales on:
- Friday November 17th from 02:00pm to 06:00pm
- Saturday November 18th from 08:30am to 01:30pm
Are you ready for Thanksgiving?
Looking forward to seeing you.
Sincerely,
The Team at Made in France / Village Imports
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I went to the sale yesterday afternoon. I was impressed with the amount of food there that I wanted and was way out of my budget. I ended up with a couple of 7 oz. pates, one 7 oz package of pork rilettes, one 7 oz. package of duck rilettes, a block of parmagiano reggiano and, just to see what the big fuss was about, a four pack of yogurt. So far, I can't see (or taste) the big fuss over the yogurt, but maybe the other 3 cups will change my mind. I've had the pates before and know that they'll be good. The thing I can't wait to try is the rilettes. I had some salmon rilettes when I went to Bouchon for my mom's birthday and I haven't been able to keep my mind off it for awhile. I spent a little over 40 dollars. Money well spent in my opinion.
Posted by: Sherman Buena | November 18, 2006 at 07:29 AM
Sherman,
Exciting stuff! I'm glad you went and found some nice goodies.
Mary
Posted by: Mary | November 19, 2006 at 07:47 AM