E. Dehillerin, Paris

For foodies the world over, the grand high temple for culinary utensils is the storied E. Dehillerin. Julia shopped there (there’s a yellowing photo of her in plastic behind the counter), as does Ina, Eric Ripert, Chocolate & Zucchini, and a host of other famous chefs and writers. It’s not because it’s glamorous (it has the feel of a drugstore that time forgot somewhere in Iowa). Simply, it’s because they have everything. The famously indifferent staff will warm up once they understand that you know what you want. Don’t believe what you’ve read; they actually can be quite charming. But they are NOT going to hold your hand while you try to figure out which financier mold is right for you. While browsing will be irresistable, come with a list. Mine included brioche molds, black steel omelette pans, Opinel knives, and a Chateau Laguiole wine opener. When I asked Jean, who was assisting us, to show me where the charlotte molds were, he lead me down a dark faded aisle to a shelf whereupon sat about 15 choices, then calmly walked away. Who could have guessed that there were 15 different charlotte molds in the world? Jean was extremely knowledgable and explained in great detail how to season my black steel pan, as well as the difference in knives, molds, and other items. And while the prices are not cheap, and I had to endure a backache after schlepping loads of metal through two airports, it was well worth it. My omelette came out perfect.