We love our Opinel retailers! Learn about their business, how they discovered Opinel, why they brought Opinel into their store. They even share some local tips! This month's feature is Los Angeles-based Monsieur Marcel with owner, Stephane Strouk.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
Born and raised in the South of France and Paris, I moved to America in 1989 and married my wife Katy, a California native, the following year. We moved to Los Angeles in early ‘93 and opened a small creperie in the Original Farmers Market. By the end of the year we opened the Monsieur Marcel Cheese Shop and have continued to grow our business and family over the last 30 years.
How would you describe your store?
Marcel Gourmet Market, Restaurant and Seafood Market is a family-owned French-inspired restaurant, seafood market and specialty food and giftware store with a thoughtfully-curated collection of the world's finest gourmet foods, cheese and charcuterie, international and California wines, spices, chocolates and imported artisanal cuisine ingredients. Located at the Original Farmer's Market at Third and Fairfax for nearly 30 years, Monsieur Marcel includes a European café-style restaurant recently named one of the top French bistros in Los Angeles; a seafood market offering fresh, wild-caught seafood, shellfish and caviar; and a satellite market located in Terminal 5 at Los Angeles International Airport. Monsieur Marcel has grown into LA's premier gourmet foods destination for discerning customers ranging from international tourists, European locals and food-savvy home chefs to professional caterers and private chefs.
How did you hear about Opinel?
I have carried an Opinel knife since I was a kid and have collected many over the years.
Why did you choose to carry Opinel?
Because of the history, reputation and excellent quality of Opinel.
What do your customers like most about Opinel?
That its French and good quality.
Do you have a favorite Opinel knife or tool?
My favorite Opinel knife is a 125 year limited edition blade that I received as a present from Alex. I carry it in my pocket every day!
What is your favorite thing to do in your city/town?
I love to Motorcycle, ride bikes on the beachfront with my daughters and enjoy all the amazing food that Los Angeles has to offer.
Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market and Restaurant
6333 W 3rd Street, Los Angeles CA 90036
Experience our knives at your local shops! With over 1,000 retailers in the US, there is most certainly one near you! Check out the Store Locator. Not finding a local retailer? We'd love to hear where you think we should be found! email retail@opinel-usa.com
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