Paris – a city dedicated to patisseries. Offering a unique experience, combining Parisian tradition with innovation in pastries.
Known as the city of lights, Paris is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and exquisite cuisine. Among the culinary delights Paris has to offer, patisseries stand out as havens of delicate pastries and irresistible desserts.
Whether you’re indulging in a classic macaron at Ladurée or savoring an avant-garde creation by Pierre Hermé, the patisseries of Paris promise a journey of flavors that is as enchanting as the city itself.
Here’s a guide to the 10 best patisseries in Paris that promise to enchant your taste buds and provide an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
1. Ladurée
Where: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées
Ladurée is synonymous with Parisian elegance and luxury. Famous for its pastel-colored macarons, this iconic patisserie offers a wide array of flavors that melt in your mouth. Beyond macarons, Ladurée’s beautifully crafted pastries, like the rose-flavored Ispahan, are a testament to the artistry and tradition of French patisserie.
2. Pierre Hermé
Where: 72 Rue Bonaparte
Pierre Hermé is often hailed as the Picasso of pastry. His innovative approach to flavors and textures has revolutionized the pastry world. His signature pastries, such as the Mogador (a passion fruit and chocolate macaron), are a delightful explosion of taste. Hermé’s patisseries are not just desserts; they are culinary masterpieces that challenge traditional notions of flavor.
3. Stohrer
Where: 51 Rue Montorgueil
As the oldest patisserie in Paris, Stohrer is a historic gem. Established in 1730, this patisserie has preserved its original charm while continuing to produce exquisite pastries. The Baba au Rhum, a rum-soaked cake with whipped cream, is a must-try. Stohrer’s pastries blend history with flavor, offering a taste of Parisian heritage.
4. La Pâtisserie des Rêves
Where: 37 Rue de Varenne
La Pâtisserie des Rêves, or The Pastry Shop of Dreams, lives up to its name. Created by pastry chef Philippe Conticini, this patisserie is known for reimagining classic French pastries with a modern twist. The Paris-Brest, a choux pastry filled with praline cream, is a standout item that showcases Conticini’s innovative approach to traditional recipes.
5. Café Pouchkine
Where: 16 place de la Madeleine,
Café Pouchkine brings a touch of Russian opulence to Paris. This patisserie offers a unique blend of French and Russian influences, resulting in exquisite pastries that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The Medovik, a Russian honey cake, and the Saint-Honoré, a classic French pastry, are prime examples of the delightful fusion of cultures.
6. Maison Mulot
Where: 76 Rue de Seine, and 2 Rue Lobineau
Located in the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, Maison Mulot is a beloved neighborhood patisserie. Known for its attention to detail and high-quality ingredients, Maison Mulot offers a wide range of pastries, from fruit tarts to éclairs. The tarte aux framboises (raspberry tart) is particularly celebrated for its freshness and vibrant flavor.
7. Angelina
Where: 226 Rue de Rivoli
Angelina is an institution in Paris, famous for its decadent hot chocolate and the Mont-Blanc, a pastry made with meringue, whipped cream, and chestnut paste. This Belle Époque tearoom has been a favorite among Parisians and tourists alike since 1903. A visit to Angelina is not just about the pastries but also about immersing oneself in the elegant, historical ambiance.
8. Jacques Genin
Where: 27 Rue de Varenne and 133 Rue de Turenne
Jacques Genin is a self-taught chocolatier and pastry chef whose creations have garnered widespread acclaim. His minimalist approach to presentation highlights the exceptional quality of his ingredients. The mille-feuille, with its perfectly layered puff pastry and vanilla cream, is a standout. Genin’s chocolates and caramels are also not to be missed.
9. Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac
Where: 24 Rue Paul Bert
Celebrity chef Cyril Lignac brings his creative flair to the world of pastries. His patisserie offers a modern take on traditional favorites, with a focus on bold flavors and impeccable presentation. The Equinoxe, a combination of vanilla bourbon, caramel, and speculoos, exemplifies Lignac’s innovative approach to pastry-making.
10. Du Pain et des Idées
Where: 34 Rue Yves Toudic
For a taste of authentic, rustic pastries, Du Pain et des Idées is the place to visit. Located in the Canal Saint-Martin district, this bakery-patisserie is celebrated for its traditional French breads and viennoiseries. The escargot pistache chocolat, a spiral pastry with pistachio and chocolate, is a crowd favorite that perfectly captures the essence of French pastry craftsmanship.
