Discovering the world of exquisite La Maison Maille in the heart of NYC’s Flatiron District—a journey through unique Dijon mustards, artisanal cornichons, premium oils, and gourmet vinegars.
Important Update: As of Fall 2017, Maille has transitioned its focus, and their New York boutiques are no longer operational. However, the legacy of Maille continues! For those seeking their exceptional products, the full line remains readily available for purchase online. International boutiques are also listed on their official website for travelers.
My culinary perspective was forever transformed one crisp autumn afternoon when I had the distinct pleasure of visiting one of La Maison Maille’s celebrated boutiques in Manhattan. This experience didn’t just introduce me to new flavors; it fundamentally redefined my understanding of what Dijon mustard could be, in the most delightful and delectable way imaginable.
My journey with Maille began earlier that summer when I received a sample of one of their exquisite limited edition mustards. I still fondly recall the Honey Mustard Grilled Pork Chops I crafted with it, a dish that truly highlighted its unique character. It was then I learned about their dedicated retail stores in the city, an exciting discovery for any food enthusiast. Shortly after, I received a gracious invitation from Pauline Ouchikh, one of Maille’s dedicated PR representatives in New York, to tour their beautiful Flatiron boutique. As a passionate food blogger, one of my greatest joys is uncovering and sharing exceptional gastronomic experiences with my readers. I genuinely hope that the recounting of my visit brings you as much pleasure as I derived from that unforgettable afternoon exploring Maille’s world of fine condiments.
Maille’s Gourmet Mustards: A Culinary Revelation
For years, my local markets have faithfully stocked three staples from Maille’s classic mustard range: the iconic Dijon Originale, the robust Old-Style Whole Grain, and the delightfully sweet Honey Mustard. These have been long-standing favorites in my pantry, elevating countless dishes. What I hadn’t realized, however, was the sheer breadth and luxurious depth of Maille’s product line, extending far beyond these familiar varieties into a realm of truly gourmet creations. Oh, how I wish I had discovered this sooner!
Stepping into the boutique, I was immediately greeted by Tevin, Maille’s knowledgeable Mustard Advisor, whose expertise would prove invaluable. Armed with a delicate breadstick, the perfect vehicle for tasting, I embarked on a guided culinary tour, sampling an array of mustards that challenged and delighted my palate. Each jar held a unique story and flavor profile, meticulously crafted to perfection. I savored the sophisticated blend of Blue Cheese and White Wine, where the pungent notes of blue cheese were beautifully mellowed by the crispness of white wine, creating a complex and savory spread ideal for sandwiches or cheese boards. Next, the exotic Saffron and Crème Fraiche offered a creamy texture and a subtle, aromatic spice that hinted at luxurious culinary applications, perhaps paired with delicate fish or roasted chicken. Then came the intriguing Beetroot-Honey mustard, a vibrant fusion of earthy sweetness and a gentle tang, promising to be a showstopper alongside roasted meats or in a vibrant salad dressing. Each tasting was a revelation, sparking a whirlwind of recipe ideas in my mind. It was a genuine challenge to exercise restraint and not acquire every single jar I tasted. Without exaggeration, this boutique truly felt like an absolute paradise for any discerning gourmet mustard lover, showcasing Maille’s commitment to innovation and tradition in equal measure.
The Unique Experience: Mustard “From the Tap”
Perhaps the most captivating and signature element of the Maille boutique experience was their distinctive “mustard on-tap” service. This unique concept elevates mustard beyond a mere condiment, transforming its acquisition into a refined culinary ritual. Classic and seasonal mustard recipes are elegantly dispensed from beautiful porcelain pumps, allowing connoisseurs to refill their exquisite stoneware jars. These elegant jars, designed for reuse, are not just beautiful but also embody a commitment to sustainability, encouraging customers to return for refills at any Maille boutique, thereby fostering a connection to tradition and quality.
During my autumn visit, the spotlight was firmly on their decadent truffle mustards available from the pumps. I had the pleasure of sampling both the new Black Truffle Cep and the consistently bestselling Black Truffle and Chablis. Choosing a favorite between these two aromatic masterpieces proved to be an impossible task. Both were impeccably balanced and intensely fragrant, offering an unparalleled depth of flavor. The Black Truffle Cep presented a slightly more subtle and earthy profile, with the mushroom’s nuances shining through. In contrast, the Black Truffle and Chablis offered a more assertive, luxurious truffle essence, beautifully complemented by the wine’s sophisticated notes. Beyond these autumnal delights, the pumps also featured other distinguished varieties such as the smooth Dijon Originale with White Wine, the sweet and refined Sauternes, the textured Wholegrain Chardonnay, and the bright, versatile Chablis mustard. The latter, with its delicate balance and refreshing character, quickly became a cherished favorite in my own kitchen, proving its versatility in everything from marinades to vinaigrettes.
Beyond Mustard: Fine Oils, Vinegars, and Cornichons
My visit to La Maison Maille also served as a wonderful introduction to their impressive range of complementary gourmet products, a collection I was previously unfamiliar with. The expanded line of cornichons, premium oils, and artisanal vinegars proved to be as captivating as their renowned mustards. Among these, the caramelized onion gherkins immediately stood out. Their delicate hint of sweetness, perfectly balanced with the classic tangy crunch, instantly made them my new “go-to” for enhancing remoulades, crafting vibrant relishes, or simply enjoying as a sophisticated accompaniment to a charcuterie board. These aren’t just pickles; they are a culinary accent.
I also found myself utterly enchanted by their exquisite walnut oil and the diverse array of fruit vinegars. The walnut oil, with its rich, nutty aroma and silky texture, promises to be a fantastic finishing oil for salads, roasted vegetables, or even a drizzle over fresh pasta, adding an unparalleled depth of flavor. The fruit vinegars, in particular, presented a world of creative possibilities. Much like a traditional shrub, these vinegars can be ingeniously utilized to craft delicious and refreshing cocktails or sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages. I envision experimenting with their vibrant profiles throughout the holiday season, perhaps creating unique sparkling concoctions or infusing them into festive glazes for desserts and savory dishes. This discovery reinforced Maille’s dedication to providing a complete gourmet experience, encouraging exploration and creativity in the kitchen.
My sincere and special thanks go out to Pauline Ouchikh, Diana Tedesco, Elisa Galassi, Tevin, and Nicole So, for their exceptional warmth, gracious hospitality, and invaluable insights during my visit. Their passion for Maille products was infectious and truly enhanced the entire experience. While the physical boutiques in New York may have closed their doors, the spirit of La Maison Maille lives on through its exquisite products available online and internationally. I eagerly anticipate continuing my culinary journey with Maille and look forward to discovering new ways to incorporate their exceptional flavors into my cooking.
For those who share my profound love for mustard, don’t miss these cherished recipes from my archives, all expertly utilizing the versatile power of Dijon:
Honey Mustard Grilled Pork Chops with Cherry Sauce (Sponsored)
Savory Bacon Peach Jam
Classic French Potato Salad with Baby Arugula
A Gourmet Trio of Deviled Eggs
Luxurious Beef Tenderloin with Cognac Cream Sauce