9 Best Places for Authentic Opera Cake in Paris
From personal experience, I'll tell you that Paris's best Opera cake starts at Dalloyau, where it was invented in 1955! You'll also find exquisite versions at Ladurée Champs-Élysées, Pierre Hermé, Angelina Paris, La Pâtisserie Du Meurice, Des Gâteaux Et Du Pain, Hugo & Victor, La Maison Du Chocolat, and historic Stohrer. Each patisserie puts its unique spin on this classic French dessert, with prices ranging from €6.50-12 per slice. Let's explore what makes each spot special.
Dalloyau: The Birthplace of Opera Cake
Nestled in the heart of Paris, Maison Dalloyau stands as the birthplace of one of France's most celebrated pastries – the Opera Cake. Created in 1955 by Cyriaque Gavillon, this elegant layered dessert pays homage to the grandeur of the Palais Garnier opera house and has become a symbol of French pastry excellence. The original location at 101 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré continues to craft this masterpiece using the same meticulous technique that made it famous.
The Opera Cake's creation at Dalloyau marked a revolutionary moment in French patisserie, combining delicate layers of almond sponge cake soaked in coffee syrup, dark chocolate ganache, and coffee buttercream. The precision required to create perfectly even layers, topped with a mirror-like chocolate glaze, established Dalloyau as a pioneer in contemporary French pastry craftsmanship.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €7-9 per individual slice
- Peak Hours: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Advance Orders: Recommended for whole cakes
- Seasonal Variations: Available year-round
- Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, gluten, dairy
- Shelf Life: Best consumed within 24 hours
- Photography: Allowed inside the shop
- Seating: Limited café space available
The Original Opera Experience
At Dalloyau's flagship store, the Opera Cake maintains its original recipe and presentation. Each slice weighs exactly 100 grams and features seven distinct layers, creating the signature rectangular shape that became the industry standard. The boutique opens daily from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and the best selections are available in the morning. Insider tip: Visit between 10:00 AM and noon to watch the pastry chefs assemble fresh batches through the kitchen's viewing window.
Pro Tips:
For the ultimate Opera Cake experience, order a slice with a cup of their house-blend coffee, which is specifically crafted to complement the cake's coffee notes. The cake should be enjoyed at room temperature – if purchasing for later, allow 20 minutes for the cake to warm slightly from refrigeration temperature. The texture should be firm but yielding, with distinct layers visible in each bite.
Practical Advice:
During peak tourist seasons (July-August and December), consider making a reservation for the salon de thé or arrive early to secure a table. Dalloyau offers elegant gift packaging for whole cakes, and international shipping is available for their signature boxes. For the best value, visit during weekday mornings when fresh batches are prepared and the shop is less crowded. Credit cards are widely accepted, and English-speaking staff is available to assist with selections and special orders.
Ladurée Champs-Élysées
Nestled along Paris's most famous avenue, Ladurée Champs-Élysées stands as an iconic destination for one of France's most beloved pastries – the Opera cake. This historic establishment, dating back to 1862, has perfected the art of crafting this decadent layered dessert, composed of almond sponge cake soaked in coffee syrup, layered with coffee buttercream and chocolate ganache.
The flagship location on the Champs-Élysées offers an especially memorable setting for savoring Opera cake, combining Belle Époque elegance with modern Parisian sophistication. The ornate interior, featuring hand-painted ceilings and crystal chandeliers, transforms the simple act of enjoying a slice of cake into a quintessentially Parisian experience.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €8-12 per slice
- Best Times to Visit: Weekdays 10-11:30 AM or 3-5 PM
- Reservation Required: Yes, for tea room seating
- Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, gluten, dairy
- Take-away Option: Available
- Payment Methods: All major credit cards accepted
- Languages: English-speaking staff available
The Opera cake at Ladurée Champs-Élysées distinguishes itself through its precise 2:1 ratio of cream to cake layers, creating the perfect balance of textures. The establishment's version features single-origin coffee from Ethiopia in both the syrup and buttercream, lending a sophisticated depth to the classic recipe. Located at 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the tearoom operates daily from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Insider tip: Request a table in the upper salon for a more intimate experience and better people-watching opportunities through the ornate windows.
Pro Tips:
For the freshest Opera cake experience, visit between 2:00 and 3:00 PM when the afternoon batch is typically brought out. Photography enthusiasts should request a window seat during golden hour (around 5:00 PM in summer, 3:00 PM in winter) when natural light streams through the historic windows, creating perfect conditions for capturing both the cake and the elegant interior.
Practical Advice:
Make reservations at least 48 hours in advance for the tea room, especially during peak tourist season (June-August). While walk-ins are accepted for the takeaway counter, expect a 15-20 minute wait during busy periods. Consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends to avoid the largest crowds, and remember that the establishment enforces a smart-casual dress code – no athletic wear or beachwear is permitted in the tea room.
Pierre Hermé Saint-Germain
Pierre Hermé's Saint-Germain boutique stands as a temple to French pastry excellence, particularly renowned for its exceptional Opera cake that masterfully balances coffee, chocolate, and almond flavors. Located in the heart of the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, this elegant boutique showcases the work of Pierre Hermé, dubbed the "Picasso of Pastry" by Vogue magazine, who has revolutionized traditional French pastry with his innovative approach.
The Saint-Germain location holds special significance as one of Hermé's flagship stores, where his Opera cake has achieved legendary status among both locals and tourists. The boutique's sophisticated interior design, featuring clean lines and minimalist displays, creates the perfect backdrop for experiencing what many consider to be the finest Opera cake in Paris.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €7-9 per individual Opera cake slice
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00, Sunday 10:00-18:00
- Reservation: Not required for store visits
- Peak Times: 2:00-5:00 PM for afternoon tea
- Payment Methods: All major credit cards accepted
- Dietary Notes: Contains gluten, eggs, and nuts
- Languages: Staff speaks English and French
The Opera cake at Pierre Hermé Saint-Germain distinguishes itself through precise layering and superior ingredients, featuring Valrhona chocolate and carefully selected coffee beans. The boutique's version maintains the traditional six-layer composition but elevates it with Hermé's signature touches, including a slightly higher coffee-to-chocolate ratio than typical Opera cakes. Located at 72 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris, the boutique is easily accessible from the Saint-Germain-des-Prés metro station. Insider tip: Visit between 10:00-11:30 AM for the freshest selection and shorter wait times.
Pro Tips:
For the ultimate Pierre Hermé Opera cake experience, pair it with their signature hot chocolate during colder months or their house-made cold brew coffee in summer. Consider purchasing a larger size for special occasions, but order at least 48 hours in advance. The cake tastes best at room temperature, so if purchasing to take away, allow 20-30 minutes before consuming.
Practical Advice:
While the Opera cake is a must-try, expect higher prices than at standard patisseries, reflecting the premium quality and craftsmanship. Photography is permitted inside the store, but be mindful of other customers and staff. During peak tourist season (July-August), visit early in the day or make a midweek visit to avoid the longest queues. The boutique offers elegant packaging for takeaway, making it an excellent option for gifts or special occasions.
Angelina Paris
Founded in 1903, Angelina Paris stands as one of the city's most revered institutions for classic French pastries, particularly their exquisite Opera cake. The elegant tearoom on Rue de Rivoli has served as a gathering place for Parisian nobility and cultural elite for over a century, including Coco Chanel and Proust, who were regular patrons.
The establishment's Opera cake exemplifies the perfect balance of coffee-soaked almond sponge, dark chocolate ganache, and coffee buttercream that defines this classical French dessert. While Angelina may be famous for its hot chocolate, their Opera cake has earned its own devoted following among both locals and tourists seeking authentic Parisian patisserie experiences.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €8-10 per slice, €45-55 for whole cake
- Reservation recommended for tea room seating
- Multiple locations throughout Paris
- Best visiting times: Weekdays before 11am or after 4pm
- Takeaway available at all locations
- Gluten-free options not available for Opera cake
- Major credit cards accepted
The flagship location at 226 Rue de Rivoli offers the quintessential Angelina experience, with its Belle Époque interior featuring elaborate wall sculptures and magnificent mirrors. The Opera cake here is served with precision and ceremony, accompanied by a small gold fork and presented on signature Angelina porcelain. Insider tip: Request a table in the back room near the mirrors for the most atmospheric experience and best natural lighting for photos.
Pro Tips:
To truly appreciate Angelina's Opera cake, visit during off-peak hours when the service is more attentive and unhurried. Order their famous hot chocolate alongside the Opera cake, but request it to be served after you've finished half your cake slice – this prevents the hot chocolate from overwhelming the delicate coffee notes in the Opera cake. For the freshest taste, visit between 10:30-11:00 AM when new batches typically arrive from their central kitchen.
Practical Advice:
During peak tourist season (June-August), expect wait times of up to an hour at the Rue de Rivoli location. Consider visiting their less crowded boutique at the Galeries Lafayette instead, where the Opera cake quality is identical but the atmosphere more relaxed. If planning to purchase a whole cake, order at least 24 hours in advance and be prepared to show ID for pickup. The cake can be safely transported for up to two hours if properly boxed by staff.
La Pâtisserie Du Meurice by Cédric Grolet
La Pâtisserie Du Meurice by Cédric Grolet brings world-renowned pastry artistry to the heart of Paris's 1st arrondissement. Housed within the luxurious Le Meurice hotel, this elegant pastry shop showcases the creations of celebrated pastry chef Cédric Grolet, whose Opera cake has earned international acclaim for its ideal balance of textures and flavors.
The patisserie's Opera cake stands out for its meticulous preparation and artistic presentation, featuring precisely layered almond sponge cake, coffee buttercream, and chocolate ganache. Grolet's interpretation maintains the classic elements while incorporating his signature refined aesthetic and attention to detail that has made him one of Paris's most sought-after pastry chefs.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €9-12 per slice
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Reservation: Not required but recommended for large orders
- Wait Times: 15-30 minutes during peak hours
- Payment: All major credit cards accepted
- Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, gluten, and dairy
- Languages: Staff speaks French and English
The Opera cake at La Pâtisserie Du Meurice exemplifies Grolet's commitment to perfection. Each slice features six precise layers, with the chocolate coating achieving a mirror-like finish that has become his trademark. Located at 228 Rue de Rivoli, the patisserie offers both takeaway and dine-in options in an elegantly appointed space. Insider tip: Visit between 3:00-4:00 PM on weekdays for the freshest selection and shortest wait times, as new batches are typically brought out during this period.
Pro Tips:
For the finest Opera cake experience, pair it with the house-blend coffee, specially selected to complement the cake's coffee notes. Photography enthusiasts should request a window seat, where natural light creates ideal conditions for capturing the cake's glossy surface. Consider buying a whole cake (available with 24-hour advance notice) for special occasions, as it comes with special packaging designed to maintain the perfect temperature.
Practical Advice:
Due to the delicate nature of the Opera cake, it's best consumed within two hours of purchase if not refrigerated. The patisserie provides thermal bags for takeaway orders during warm months, and it's advisable to bring your own additional insulation if traveling more than 30 minutes with the cake, particularly during summer.
Des Gâteaux Et Du Pain
Des Gâteaux et du Pain stands as one of Paris's most revered pastry destinations, where tradition meets modern refinement under the masterful guidance of Claire Damon. This elegant boutique patisserie, with its sleek contemporary design and meticulously arranged display cases, has earned its reputation as a premier destination for Opera cake enthusiasts seeking the perfect balance of coffee, chocolate, and almond flavors.
The establishment's interpretation of the classic Opera cake has become legendary among pastry aficionados, featuring precisely layered almond sponge cake (joconde), coffee buttercream, and chocolate ganache. Each slice represents the pinnacle of French pastry craftsmanship, demonstrating why Des Gâteaux et du Pain has become a mandatory stop for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Parisian pastry experiences.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €6.50-8.50 per slice
- Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00-11:00 AM for freshest selection
- No reservations required
- Multiple locations in Paris
- Takeaway only – no seating area
- Credit cards accepted
- Dietary Note: Contains nuts, gluten, and dairy
The flagship location in the 15th arrondissement (63 Boulevard Pasteur) showcases Claire Damon's artistry in a space that feels more like a jewelry boutique than a traditional patisserie. The Opera cake here features exceptionally thin layers of joconde, creating a more refined texture than typically found elsewhere. The coffee notes are particularly pronounced, using a custom-roasted blend that sets this version apart from competitors.
Pro Tips:
Visit during mid-morning on weekdays to avoid the weekend rush and guarantee the best selection. The Opera cake pairs beautifully with their house-blend coffee, and many regulars recommend purchasing an extra slice to enjoy the next day, as the flavors develop further after 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Practical Advice:
Bring a sturdy box or container if planning to transport the cake more than a short distance, as the delicate layers can be affected by movement. The staff speaks English and will gladly explain the components of their pastries. During summer months, request an ice pack if you'll be walking more than 15 minutes before consuming your purchase.
Hugo & Victor
Nestled in the chic 7th arrondissement, Hugo & Victor stands as a symbol of modern French pastry artistry, where traditional recipes meet contemporary aesthetic sensibilities. This luxury patisserie, founded by Hugues Pouget, has earned its reputation as one of Paris's premier destinations for Opera cake, transforming the classic dessert into an architectural masterpiece of chocolate, coffee, and almond layers.
The Opera cake at Hugo & Victor distinguishes itself through its precise execution and premium ingredients, including single-origin chocolate and carefully selected coffee beans. Each slice presents as a perfectly geometric composition, with layers so distinct they resemble a miniature work of art, making it not just a culinary experience but a visual feast as well.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €7.50-9.00 per slice, €45-55 for whole cake
- Reservation Required: No, but pre-orders recommended for whole cakes
- Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Friday, 10:00-11:30 AM for freshest selection
- Dietary Notes: Contains gluten, nuts, dairy, and eggs
- Payment Methods: Credit cards and cash accepted
- Language: Staff speaks English and French
The Opera cake at Hugo & Victor exemplifies the patisserie's commitment to excellence through its meticulous construction. Each layer showcases precise thickness and texture, from the coffee-soaked almond sponge to the dark chocolate ganache. Located at 40 Boulevard Raspail, the shop operates Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The lesser-known secret is their seasonal variation of the Opera cake, which incorporates unique flavors like yuzu or matcha during specific months.
Pro Tips:
For the ultimate Opera cake experience at Hugo & Victor, visit during mid-morning hours when the pastries are freshly arranged in their display cases. The shop offers a unique "discovery box" option that includes a slice of Opera cake alongside other signature pastries, providing an excellent way to compare their interpretation with other classics. Photography is permitted inside the store, but the best lighting for photos is during morning hours when natural light streams through the front windows.
Practical Advice:
While walk-ins are welcome, calling ahead for whole Opera cakes is essential, especially during holiday seasons or special occasions. The shop provides elegant packaging suitable for gift-giving, and they can maintain the cake's perfect condition for up to 4 hours unrefrigerated, making it ideal for special events or dinner parties in Paris. Consider purchasing early in the day and requesting their temperature-controlled packaging if planning to transport the cake across the city.
La Maison Du Chocolat
Founded in 1977 by master chocolatier Robert Linxe, La Maison du Chocolat has established itself as one of Paris's premier destinations for luxury chocolate creations, including their masterfully crafted Opera cake. This renowned establishment elevates the traditional Opera cake recipe by incorporating their signature chocolate expertise, creating a harmonious blend of dark chocolate, coffee, and almond layers that has earned international acclaim.
The Opera cake at La Maison du Chocolat stands out for its meticulous attention to detail and premium ingredients. Unlike typical versions, their interpretation features single-origin chocolate from carefully selected cacao plantations, adding complex flavor notes that complement the classic coffee and almond elements. Each slice is a precise architecture of six layers, demonstrating the house's commitment to both taste and visual presentation.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €7-9 per slice, €45-55 for whole cake
- Best Time to Visit: Tuesday-Thursday mornings, less crowded
- Advance Orders: Required 48 hours ahead for whole cakes
- Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, gluten, and dairy
- Seating: Limited in-store café space
- Payment: All major credit cards accepted
- Temperature: Best consumed within 2 hours of purchase
The flagship boutique on Boulevard de la Madeleine offers the quintessential La Maison du Chocolat experience. The Opera cake here is served in the elegant salon de thé, where trained staff can explain the intricate creation process and suggested wine pairings. The store's sophisticated atmosphere, with its chocolate-brown and gold décor, creates the perfect setting for savoring this refined dessert. Insider tip: Ask for a corner slice, which often features the most precise layering and ideal ratio of ganache to cake.
Pro Tips:
For the best experience, visit between 10:30 AM and noon when fresh batches are typically available. Consider pairing your Opera cake with their signature hot chocolate, specially formulated to complement their pastries. During summer months, request your cake be served slightly chilled to maintain the perfect texture of the chocolate ganache layers.
Practical Advice:
While walk-ins are welcome for single slices, calling ahead is recommended for larger groups or whole cake orders. The Opera cake can be packaged for takeaway, but it's best enjoyed in-store at perfect temperature. For international visitors, the staff speaks English and can provide detailed information about ingredients and preparation methods. The boutique offers special packaging for transport, though it's recommended to consume the cake within 24 hours for the best taste experience.
Stohrer: The Historic Royal Patisserie
Founded in 1730 by King Louis XV's pastry chef Nicolas Stohrer, this legendary patisserie stands as Paris's oldest operating pastry shop. Its elegant storefront on rue Montorgueil has witnessed nearly three centuries of Parisian history while maintaining its reputation for exceptional pastries, including their masterfully crafted Opera cake.
The Opera cake at Stohrer represents a perfect marriage of traditional expertise and royal heritage. While the patisserie didn't invent this classic French dessert, their version has become renowned for its precise layering technique and balanced flavor profile that honors the original recipe while incorporating subtle refinements developed over generations of master pastry chefs.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €6.50-7.50 per slice, €35-45 for whole cake
- Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Friday, 8:30-10:30 AM for freshest selection
- Seating: Limited standing room only, primarily takeaway
- Payment Methods: Credit cards accepted, contactless available
- Photography: Allowed inside, best lighting mid-morning
- Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, gluten, and dairy; no alternative versions available
Stohrer's Opera cake stands out for its exceptionally thin almond sponge layers, soaked precisely in coffee syrup and separated by silky smooth chocolate ganache and coffee buttercream. The shop's marble counters and gilded mirrors create an appropriately regal backdrop for purchasing this noble dessert. Located at 51 rue Montorgueil in the 2nd arrondissement, Stohrer operates Tuesday through Sunday, 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM. A little-known secret: their Opera cake tastes best when allowed to rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes after refrigeration.
Pro Tips:
To experience Stohrer at its finest, visit during mid-week mornings when locals pick up their breakfast pastries. The Opera cake is often fresher, and the staff has more time to answer questions about the patisserie's history and techniques. Consider purchasing a slice to enjoy immediately and a whole cake for later, as they package their creations beautifully in gift boxes that can withstand several hours of Paris sightseeing.
Practical Advice:
While exploring Stohrer, take advantage of its location on rue Montorgueil, one of Paris's best market streets. The area around the patisserie offers excellent cheese shops, wine stores, and produce markets, making it ideal for creating a complete French culinary experience. Remember that summer days can be warm, so if purchasing an Opera cake to go, bring an insulated bag or plan to enjoy it within an hour of purchase to maintain its perfect texture and presentation.