The Covered Market Hall of Royan

All the fish look almost human, because they are so fresh.

It is not easy to go around the market at Royan. But when you see the covered market hall, you don’t mind at all. If it is possible, it is better to leave your car in one of the side streets. Crossing the market, passing the stalls of fruit and vegetables, you will find the corner where the fish is sold.

"Excuse me madam " This is Frédéric, who invites you to make a choice and holds out to you for your inspection the fish which you select. You are in the fishmonger's shop Patric Drouillard.

All the fish look almost human, because they are so fresh. Please, choose a good ‘maigre’, a fish of the region, for your barbecue …or some ‘céteaux’, or maybe mussels and whelks.

The "maigre", a fish of the region

The maigre is found in coastal water. The adult maigre is at least 50 cms long. It reproduces during May - June in the estuary of the Gironde. It is caught along the coast by fishermen from the harbours of La Rochelle, La Cotinière, in the island of Oléron, and Royan.

The maigre is little known except in the region. It is said that this typical sort of Charente-Maritime fish has flesh so fine and is so full of flavour that it compares favourably with sea bass.

The melon Charentais

Asparagus of Blayais

The asparagus grown in Blaye's soil is famous for its tenderness and its gourmet qualities.

The high season extends from March to May and it can be found from mid-March in Royan's market.

You can even buy direct in the Blaye region from the producers.
 

 Green garlic or "aillet"

This is a local speciality which one finds in March and for a limited period.

The stalks of garlic are picked when they are green which gives a very special flavour to numerous regional recipes.