Paris’ boulangeries and patisseries have long captivated throngs of Parisians, and connoisseurs from around the world. After all, the French pastry occupies a special place in the hearts and minds of the French. With several varieties ranging all the way from well-known macrons to eclairs and tarts, there is something unique and enticing about sampling a French patisserie. If you love all things sweet, this is the dessert to try.
Coming in all shapes and forms, you could try a flaky filo, short-crusted, or cream puff patisserie. Specialized shops are even selling gluten-free versions as alternatives to popular French classics to meet the demand of the masses.
Lauded for its texture and taste, the French patisserie is undoubtedly among the most popular desserts in France, if not the world. That’s why France is known as the pastry capital of the world, thanks to its skillful artisans and unique collection of gourmet shops.
With over 30,000 boulangeries and patisseries in Paris alone, there are several exquisite mouthwatering options waiting to be sampled. If you want to savour a bite of France’s most irresistible treat, here are some of the city’s best patisseries to check out on your next trip.
Stohrer
Gracing the wonderful Rue Montorgueil, Stohrer is Paris’ oldest patisserie. It was founded by King Louis XV’s personal chef. The patisserie has evolved over time and is listed as a historical site. Replete with gold plated and lavish neo-classical décor, Stohrer has a variety of sweet treats and savory delights.
Considered a national treasure, it caters to all tastes, thanks to its friendly staff and splendid ambience. Its bestselling treats include the all-time favourite Chiboust cream tart created by the owner himself, and other classics like Puits d ’Amour; the hollow puff pastry is filled with crème and caramelized using a traditional branding iron.
Hugo & Victor
Hugo & Victor boasts an exquisite collection of patisseries, chocolates, and tarts using sugar conservatively in all their creations. Their irresistible pastries and chocolates are considered among Paris’ most authentic. Incorporating organic seasonal fruits and premium quality products, all their patisseries are freshly made. Their irresistible Grapefruit tart is among their best-selling creations. The signature tart consists of shortbread pastry, zested almond cream, and lemon, topped off with layers of fresh grapefruit slices.
Yann Couvreur
The best place to sample Paris’ renowned Brest is at the Yann Couvreur patisserie. Brest means a lot to the French. Invented in 1910 by pastry Chef Louis Durand, the famous pastry was named after a bike race that runs between Paris and the port city of Brest in northwest France. Resembling a bike’s wheel, the dough is split horizontally and filled with a praline mousse. Having worked in renowned Michelin-starred restaurants, Chef Couvreur received acclaim for his unique gourmet creations. Everyone in Paris flocks to discover his infamous Vanilla Milefeuille, which was awarded Dessert of the Year in 2014.
Carl Marletti
Sleek yet simple, the Carl Marletti bakery provides a feast for the eyes and the senses. Once you step inside the charming shoppe, you will be enticed by their selection of desserts. For starters, consider their tiny puffs filled with cream, caramelized, and topped off with whipped cream and a strawberry on top. The shop’s limited-edition pastries are worth all the attention; you wouldn’t want to miss sampling Wild, a seasonal éclair made with 1719 Cognac and French brandy.
Pain de Sucre
Pain de Sucre is a one-of- a-kind French patisserie, considered a hidden gem of sorts, its selection of desserts are certainly innovative. They offer delectable choices of both sweet and savoury delights. You will find a tasty selection of cakes, macaroons, and sweets to please the most discerning palate.
The patisserie has received several awards for its quality desserts and has even landed a spot as one of the ten best patisseries in France on the French national magazine L’Express. Their Madagascar-inspired Baobab dessert for example, made of yeast cake soaked in Vanilla and citrus syrup, topped with mousse, is one of their best-selling creations to date.
With a variety of nibble-friendly, delectable treats, Paris’ patisseries continue to charm both locals and tourists. After all, there is nothing more enticing than the sweet, gentle taste of a French pastry smoothly melting in your mouth!
