Discover Authentic West Indian Accras in Paris: A Must-Try Pop-Up on Rue des Martyrs

Paris, the city of lights and culinary wonders, constantly surprises with its hidden gastronomic gems. While renowned for its croissants and coq au vin, the city also embraces a vibrant tapestry of international flavors. We recently stumbled upon a delightful revelation that whisked our taste buds straight to the sun-drenched shores of the French Caribbean: a weekend pop-up food stand at L’Escale Marine fish shop on the bustling Rue des Martyrs, offering mouth-watering West Indian accras.

The Rue des Martyrs, a celebrated street in the 9th arrondissement, is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Known for its charming boutiques, artisanal bakeries, and gourmet delis, it’s the perfect backdrop for such an exciting culinary discovery. Imagine strolling down this picturesque street, soaking in the Parisian atmosphere, when suddenly, an enticing aroma of freshly fried delights captures your attention. This is exactly how we encountered the magic of these authentic accras, a moment of pure joy that we simply had to share.

What are Accras? A Taste of the French Caribbean

For those unfamiliar, accras (often called accras de morue, or codfish fritters) are a staple of French Caribbean cuisine, particularly in islands like Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Réunion. These delightful fritters are made from a savory batter, typically featuring salted cod (morue or bacalao), flour, and a medley of aromatic herbs and spices such as parsley, thyme, chives, garlic, and a hint of fiery chili for that authentic Caribbean kick. The mixture is then deep-fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior that gives way to a wonderfully soft and flavorful interior.

Accras are more than just a snack; they embody the spirit of West Indian hospitality and conviviality. They are commonly served as an appetizer (apéritif) or a light snack, perfect for sharing among friends and family. The beauty of a perfectly made accra lies in its balance of textures and flavors – the subtle saltiness of the cod, the herbaceous notes, the gentle spice, and the irresistible crunch. To find such authentic versions right in the heart of Paris is a rare and welcome treat, offering a genuine culinary escape.

5 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge in Paris Accras

If you need convincing, here are five compelling reasons why you absolutely must try these accras on your next visit to Rue des Martyrs:

• A Burst of Flavor and Texture: These aren’t just any fritters; they are yummy little balls of goodness, masterfully crafted. Each accra is generously filled with perfectly salted cod, then lightly fried to achieve a golden, crispy crust while maintaining a wonderfully fluffy and moist interior. Every bite is an explosion of savory flavor, perfectly seasoned and incredibly satisfying.
• An Exotic Apéritif Choice: Looking to impress your friends or simply try something different for your next apéro? Accras are an unusual and exciting food to serve at an apéritif gathering or to bring as a unique gift when visiting friends. They stand out from typical French appetizers, offering a sophisticated yet accessible taste of the Caribbean that is sure to spark conversation and delight palates.
• The Perfect On-the-Go Snack: The Rue des Martyrs is a fantastic street for leisurely window shopping and exploring. These accras are the ideal snack food to enjoy as you wander through the charming neighborhood. Warm, portable, and packed with flavor, they provide the perfect energy boost and a delightful accompaniment to your Parisian stroll.
• A Fun and Engaging Culinary Experience: Eating these accras is more than just consuming food; it’s a genuinely fun and immersive experience. There’s a joy in peeling them hot from the bag, savoring each one, and perhaps even sharing them with a loved one. It’s food meant to be enjoyed casually, adding a carefree element to your day.
• An Authentic Cultural Journey: Food is a powerful gateway to understanding different cultures. Eating these accras is a truly fun and authentic way to experience another culture without leaving Paris. Each bite transports you to the vibrant markets and lively kitchens of the West Indies, offering a delicious insight into their culinary traditions and heritage. It’s a mini-vacation for your taste buds!

Just look at them! Golden brown, perfectly puffed, and begging to be eaten. These accras truly do look amazing, don’t they? From the moment you catch their scent to the very first bite, they promise a sensory delight. Once you start, you’ll find it incredibly difficult to stop at just one. They are truly that good – addictive in the best possible way!

Their texture is a masterclass in culinary contrast: the exterior offers a delicate crispness, a perfect snap that gives way to a soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth interior. The savory and salty notes are beautifully balanced, making each accra an utterly delightful and deeply satisfying bite. We truly adore them, and we are confident you will too.

The Chef & The Story Behind Ti’Akkras

The culinary talent behind these exquisite accras is a passionate chef in training, committed to bringing the authentic flavors of the West Indies to the diverse food scene of Paris. This dedicated individual is not only honing her skills but also actively participating in and organizing vibrant pop-up food events across the city. This entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with a deep love for her heritage, is what makes the Ti’Akkras stand so special.

She has teamed up with seven friends, a collective of enthusiastic foodies, to create and host these exciting pop-up culinary experiences in and around Paris. These events serve as a platform for sharing unique flavors, celebrating culture, and fostering a sense of community through food. For instance, they were recently involved in a pop-up foodie event in Saint Denis, showcasing their delectable creations to an even wider audience. You can find more details about past and future events here.

To stay updated on their latest pop-up locations, events, and delicious offerings, we highly recommend following Ti’Akkras on Facebook. It’s the best way to ensure you don’t miss out on their next appearance and your chance to savor these incredible West Indian delights.

Beyond Accras: Exploring the Rue des Martyrs Food Scene

The Rue des Martyrs itself is a destination. Stretching from Notre-Dame de Lorette to the foot of Montmartre, this vibrant street is celebrated for its independent food shops, artisanal producers, and cozy cafes. It’s a place where Parisians and visitors alike come to savor the authentic flavors of the city. From exquisite cheese shops and traditional bakeries to fresh produce stalls and gourmet delis, the Rue des Martyrs offers a feast for the senses.

Finding a West Indian accra pop-up here only adds to its eclectic charm, showcasing Paris’s ability to embrace and highlight global cuisines within its historic settings. After enjoying your savory accras, you might find yourself craving something sweet. The street is also home to some incredible dessert spots.

Looking for a delicious sweet treat on the Rue des Martyrs?

• Don’t miss the delicate choux at Popelini Paris, an experience in itself!
• Explore the numerous patisseries offering classic French pastries like éclairs, macarons, and tarte Tatin.
• Indulge in artisanal chocolates from local chocolatiers, perfect for a special treat or a gift.
• Grab a scoop of handmade ice cream or sorbet from one of the quaint glacier shops.

The Rue des Martyrs offers a full spectrum of gastronomic delights, making it an essential stop on any Paris food tour. The combination of its traditional Parisian charm and unexpected culinary surprises like the Ti’Akkras pop-up ensures a memorable experience.

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Plan Your Visit: L’escale Marine Pop-Up

Ready to embark on your own West Indian culinary adventure in Paris?

Location: L’escale Marine
41 rue des Martyrs
75009 Paris

Price: Expect to pay around 10€ for 15 delicious accras, an excellent value for such authentic and flavorful treats.

Availability: The Ti’Akkras pop-up stand typically appears two Saturdays per month at L’escale Marine. Given its popularity and the nature of pop-up events, it’s always a good idea to check their Facebook page, Ti’Akkras, for the most current schedule and any last-minute updates before planning your visit. This ensures you won’t miss out on the chance to try these incredible West Indian accras.

Don’t let this unique Parisian culinary experience pass you by. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Caribbean cuisine or looking to broaden your culinary horizons, the accras at L’Escale Marine offer a delightful taste of island sunshine right in the heart of Paris. It’s a testament to the city’s ever-evolving and always exciting food landscape.