8 Best Places for Authentic Religieuse Pastries in Paris

I've found Paris's 8 most incredible spots for authentic religieuse pastries! Start at Stohrer, the city's oldest pâtisserie since 1730, then explore Pierre Hermé's innovative flavors and Ladurée's classic creations. Don't miss Cédric Grolet's masterpieces at Le Meurice, Angelina's Belle Époque charm, Des Gâteaux Et Du Pain's artistry, Jacques Genin's made-to-order delights, or Maison Lenôtre's traditions. Let's explore what makes each of these double-decker choux pastries uniquely special.

Stohrer: The Oldest Pâtisserie in Paris

Founded in 1730 by Nicolas Stohrer, King Louis XV's pastry chef, Stohrer stands as Paris's oldest operating pâtisserie and a living museum of French pastry artistry. Located in the historic heart of the 2nd arrondissement, this beloved institution has been crafting exquisite religieuse pastries for nearly three centuries, maintaining the same recipes and techniques that once delighted French royalty.

The shop's religieuse, a double-decker choux pastry resembling a nun's habit, represents the pinnacle of classical French pastry-making. While many patisseries across Paris offer this traditional treat, Stohrer's version stands apart for its ideal proportion of crème pâtissière, precise chocolate coating, and delicate piping work that pays homage to its original 18th-century recipe.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Price Range: €5.50-7.00 per religieuse
• Peak Times: 10:00 AM – noon, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Pre-ordering: Available for large quantities (24+ hours notice)
• Payment Methods: Cash, major credit cards
• Languages: Staff speaks French and basic English
• Photography: Permitted inside (no flash)

The Signature Religieuse:

Stohrer's classic chocolate religieuse remains their most celebrated version, featuring two perfectly proportioned choux puffs filled with silky chocolate crème pâtissière. The pastry's distinctive chocolate glaze and decorative piping work demonstrate the shop's commitment to traditional craftsmanship. Each religieuse is made fresh daily, with limited quantities available. Insider tip: Visit between 9:00-10:00 AM for the freshest selection and to watch the pastry chefs put final touches on the day's creations.

Pro Tips:

To fully appreciate Stohrer's historic significance and culinary excellence, visit during off-peak hours (before 10:00 AM or after 5:00 PM) when the shop is less crowded. The morning light streaming through the shop's restored 19th-century windows provides the perfect natural illumination for photographing these architectural pastries. Consider purchasing a selection of mini religieuses, which allows sampling multiple flavors while maintaining the traditional presentation.

Practical Advice:

When visiting Stohrer, remember that the shop can become quite busy, and space inside is limited. Have your order ready in French if possible, and be prepared to point if language barriers arise. The staff takes pride in proper packaging to guarantee safe transport of these delicate pastries – accept their expertise in wrapping and handling recommendations. During summer months, consume the religieuse within 2-3 hours of purchase for peak taste and texture, as the cream filling is temperature-sensitive.

Pierre Hermé's Modern Masterpieces

The legendary Pierre Hermé, often dubbed the "Picasso of Pastry," has revolutionized the traditional religieuse with his innovative approach and exceptional craftsmanship. His boutiques across Paris showcase these double-choux masterpieces that maintain the classic structure while introducing contemporary flavors and artistic presentations that have earned him worldwide acclaim.

At his flagship boutique on Rue Bonaparte, the religieuse pastries demonstrate Hermé's signature style of combining unexpected flavors with precise technical execution. His interpretations range from the classic chocolate-coffee variations to bold combinations like rose-lychee and passion fruit-milk chocolate, each crafted with mathematical precision and artistic flair.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €7-9 per religieuse
• Best Times: Tuesday-Thursday mornings for freshest selection
• Pre-ordering: Recommended for special flavors
• Dietary Notes: No gluten-free options available
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted
• Peak Hours: 2-5 PM on weekends
• Seasonal Variations: Special editions released quarterly

Signature Religieuse Collections:

The Ispahan Religieuse stands as Hermé's most celebrated creation, combining rose cream, fresh raspberries, and lychee in a perfectly balanced double-choux construction. Located at 72 Rue Bonaparte, this flagship creation is best enjoyed during morning hours when the choux pastry maintains its ideal texture. Insider tip: Request the special "baroque" decoration style, an off-menu option available to those in the know.

The Mogador Religieuse presents a bold marriage of milk chocolate and passion fruit, demonstrating Hermé's mastery of flavor contrasts. Found at all Paris locations but particularly fresh at the Rue Cambon boutique, this version offers a modern twist on the traditional chocolate religieuse. Special note: The afternoon tea service at L'Orangerie includes a mini version of this creation.

Pro Tips:

The best experience comes from timing your visit to coincide with fresh batches, typically prepared twice daily at 7:30 AM and 2:00 PM. For photography enthusiasts, the natural lighting at the Saint-Germain boutique between 10-11 AM provides ideal conditions for capturing these architectural desserts. Consider purchasing a selection of mini religieuses to sample multiple flavors without overwhelming your palate.

Practical Advice:

During peak tourist season (June-August), pre-order your selections at least 24 hours in advance through the boutique's website or by phone. For the freshest experience, consume within two hours of purchase, and avoid requesting refrigeration as it can compromise the delicate texture of the choux pastry. The boutiques offer elegant gift packaging suitable for transport within Paris, but longer journeys require special thermal packaging available upon request.

Ladurée's Classic Royal Treatment

The religieuse at Ladurée stands apart for its meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to traditional methods. Each pastry consists of two choux puffs, one larger than the other, filled with luxurious crème pâtissière and adorned with perfectly piped buttercream. The establishment offers both classic flavors like chocolate and coffee, as well as seasonal variations that showcase contemporary French pastry innovation.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €7.50-9.50 per religieuse
• Best Times to Visit: Weekdays, 10-11 AM or 3-4 PM
• Advance Orders: Required for large quantities (24+ hours notice)
• Seasonal Specialties: Rotate quarterly
• Dietary Notes: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs
• Seating Available: Yes, but often requires waiting
• Take-away Packaging: Specialized boxes available

The Flagship Experience

The Ladurée flagship store on Champs-Élysées offers the most extensive religieuse selection in Paris. Their signature chocolate religieuse features Valrhona chocolate cream filling and a glossy chocolate ganache coating that sets the standard for all others in the city. The store's ornate Second Empire-style décor creates an atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. Insider tip: Visit the back salon for a quieter setting where you can enjoy your pastry with their house-blended tea.

Location Details

The primary Ladurée boutique operates daily from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM at 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The establishment accepts all major credit cards and offers a separate queue for pre-orders. Lesser-known fact: The boutique offers a special "petit déjeuner" set before 11 AM that includes a religieuse at a slightly reduced price.

Pro Tips:

For the freshest experience, timing is essential. Religieuses are typically prepared in small batches throughout the day, with the first batch ready around 9 AM. To guarantee the best selection and freshness, arrive within an hour of opening or during the afternoon refresh at 2 PM. Photography enthusiasts should note that the morning light through the store's historic windows provides the best natural lighting for capturing these photogenic treats.

Practical Advice:

During peak tourist season (June-August), consider visiting the less crowded Ladurée locations on Rue Bonaparte or Rue Royale. These venues offer the same quality but with shorter wait times. Always request your religieuse "à emporter" (to go) if you plan to photograph it, as the packaging is designed to protect the delicate structure during transport. The pastries are best consumed within 4-6 hours of purchase to experience the ideal texture contrast between the crisp choux and creamy filling.

La Pâtisserie Du Meurice by Cédric Grolet

Nestled within the prestigious Le Meurice hotel, La Pâtisserie by Cédric Grolet represents the pinnacle of French pastry craftsmanship. The boutique, opened in 2018, has become a pilgrimage site for dessert enthusiasts seeking the perfect religieuse – a classic French pastry consisting of two choux buns filled with cream and decorated to resemble a nun's habit.

Under the masterful direction of world-renowned pastry chef Cédric Grolet, this elegant establishment elevates the traditional religieuse to new heights through innovative techniques and premium ingredients. Each religieuse is meticulously crafted, combining classic French methods with contemporary artistic presentation that has earned the patisserie global recognition.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €8-12 per religieuse
• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Peak Times: Weekends 2:00-5:00 PM
• Wait Times: 15-45 minutes average
• Advance Orders: Available 48 hours ahead
• Dietary Options: Classic and seasonal variations
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted
• Indoor Seating: Limited

Signature Experience:

The boutique's religieuse stands out for its perfect ratio of crisp choux pastry to silky cream filling. Grolet's version features a delicate chocolate glaze and precise piping work that creates an architectural masterpiece. The classic chocolate and vanilla versions are menu staples, but seasonal variations showcase French ingredients like Normandy cream and Madagascar vanilla. Located at 228 Rue de Rivoli, the patisserie offers both takeaway and limited dine-in options.

Pro Tips:

Visit during weekday mornings for shorter queues and fresher selections. The best photography opportunities come between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when natural light streams through the boutique's windows. For the fullest experience, pair a religieuse with the house-made hot chocolate, a combination that perfectly represents French pastry tradition.

Practical Advice:

Pre-ordering is strongly recommended during peak tourist seasons (July-August, December). While the boutique accepts walk-ins, religieuse pastries often sell out by late afternoon. Bring appropriate storage containers if planning to transport pastries, as the delicate nature of these desserts requires careful handling. The staff speaks both French and English, making ordering accessible for international visitors.

Angelina's Belle Époque Legacy

Established in 1903, Angelina Paris stands as a representation of the grandeur of France's Belle Époque period, particularly renowned for its masterful execution of the religieuse pastry. This iconic tearoom, founded by Austrian confectioner Antoine Rumpelmayer, has maintained its position as one of Paris's most prestigious patisseries, where the artful combination of history and haute patisserie creates an unforgettable experience.

The tearoom's Belle Époque interior, designed by celebrated architect Edouard-Jean Niermans, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring their legendary religieuse pastries. With its ornate mirrors, gilded trim, and marble-topped tables, Angelina's flagship location on Rue de Rivoli continues to transport visitors to an era of Parisian refinement and sophistication.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM daily
• Price Range: €7-9 for individual religieuse pastries
• Reservation Required: Yes, for afternoon tea service
• Wait Times: 30-60 minutes without reservation
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Photography: Permitted, but flash photography discouraged
• Dietary Options: Limited gluten-free alternatives available

The Signature Religieuse Experience:

Angelina's religieuse stands out for its perfectly balanced choux pastry, filled with either classic chocolate or their signature vanilla-bourbon cream. The two-tiered creation features a larger base crowned with a smaller puff, both glazed and decorated with meticulous attention to detail. The tearoom's version maintains traditional elements while incorporating subtle modern refinements in texture and presentation.

Location and Ambiance:

The flagship location at 226 Rue de Rivoli, adjacent to the Tuileries Garden, occupies a prime position in Paris's 1st arrondissement. The salon's Belle Époque décor has been carefully preserved, featuring original wood paneling and frescoed ceilings. Insider tip: Request a table in the back salon for a more intimate experience and better photo opportunities of the historic interior.

Pro Tips:

For the freshest religieuse pastries and shortest wait times, visit between 3:00-4:00 PM when the afternoon rush has subsided and the evening's fresh batch is typically available. Consider pairing your religieuse with Angelina's famous hot chocolate ("L'Africain"), a combination that's been delighting patrons for over a century. Weekday visits, particularly Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, typically offer the most relaxed dining experience.

Practical Advice:

While Angelina's multiple Paris locations all serve the famous religieuse, the Rue de Rivoli flagship location provides the most authentic Belle Époque experience. Make reservations at least one week in advance for weekend visits, and consider their take-away service if time is limited. Remember that the tearoom accepts major credit cards but having some cash on hand is recommended for small purchases or gratuities.

Des Gâteaux Et Du Pain by Claire Damon

Nestled in the sophisticated 15th arrondissement of Paris, Des Gâteaux et du Pain stands as a representation of modern French pastry artistry under the masterful direction of Claire Damon. This elegant boutique has earned its reputation as one of Paris's premier destinations for religieuse pastries, those iconic double-choux creations that resemble miniature nuns in habits.

Claire Damon, celebrated for her innovative approach to traditional French pastries, has elevated the religieuse to new heights of refinement. Her interpretation maintains the classic double-choux structure while incorporating seasonal ingredients and unexpected flavor combinations that have earned her establishment multiple awards and a devoted following among Paris's most discerning pastry enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €6.50-8.50 per religieuse
• Peak Hours: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM, especially weekends
• Best Time to Visit: Tuesday-Thursday mornings
• Pre-ordering: Recommended for special flavors
• Dietary Notes: No gluten-free options available
• Payment: Credit cards accepted, contactless preferred
• Languages: Staff speaks basic English

The Signature Experience:

Des Gâteaux et du Pain's religieuse stands out for its pristine execution and innovative flavors. The boutique's signature version features an impossibly light choux pastry filled with silky vanilla cream, topped with a precise layer of fondant. The store is located at 63 Boulevard Pasteur, operating Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM. Insider tip: Claire Damon often introduces limited-edition seasonal religieuse flavors that aren't advertised online – ask about these special offerings when visiting.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to enjoy a religieuse from Des Gâteaux et du Pain is within two hours of purchase, when the choux pastry maintains its perfect texture. For the best experience, arrive before 11:00 AM when the day's batches are freshly prepared. Photography enthusiasts should note that the boutique's striking black and white interior provides an excellent backdrop for pastry photos, though it's best to ask permission before taking pictures.

Practical Advice:

While Des Gâteaux et du Pain doesn't offer seating, the nearby Square du Clos-Feuquières provides a pleasant spot to enjoy your pastries. During summer months, request your religieuse without the typical bag and opt for a sturdy box instead, as the delicate cream filling can be sensitive to heat. Consider bringing a small cooler bag if you're planning to transport the pastries for more than 15 minutes.

Jacques Genin's Artisanal Excellence

Nestled in the heart of the Marais district, Jacques Genin's boutique represents the pinnacle of French pastry craftsmanship, particularly renowned for its exceptional religieuse pastries. This master chocolatier and pâtissier has revolutionized the traditional religieuse, transforming the classic double-choux creation into an architectural masterpiece that maintains ideal flavor balance while pushing aesthetic boundaries.

The signature religieuse at Jacques Genin stands apart through its meticulous construction and premium ingredients, including Madagascar vanilla beans, single-origin chocolates, and seasonal fruits sourced from elite producers. Each pastry is assembled à la minute, preserving optimal texture and preventing the common pitfall of soggy choux pastry that plagues lesser establishments.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €7-9 per religieuse
• Best Visiting Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00-19:00
• Reservation Required: No, but recommended for tea salon
• Seasonal Variations: Yes, with rotating flavors
• Storage Time: Best consumed within 2 hours
• Dietary Notes: Contains gluten, eggs, dairy; no vegan options

The Salon Experience

The tea salon at 133 Rue de Turenne offers an elegant setting to savor these delicate creations. The minimalist interior, with its high ceilings and modern décor, provides the perfect backdrop for appreciating Genin's artistry. Insider tip: Request a seat by the window to watch the pastry artisans at work in the visible kitchen area.

The Signature Religieuse

Genin's classic chocolate religieuse features two perfectly proportioned choux puffs filled with silky chocolate crème pâtissière, crowned with a glossy chocolate glaze. The construction includes a subtle hint of fleur de sel that most visitors don't notice but which dramatically enhances the chocolate notes.

Seasonal Specials

Each season brings unique variations, with summer featuring raspberry and passion fruit versions, while autumn might showcase praline or caramel interpretations. The seasonality preserves peak flavor and maintains the boutique's reputation for innovation.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to visit is during mid-morning (around 11:30) when the first batch of fresh religieuses emerges from the kitchen. Consider purchasing an extra pastry to enjoy later, but note that they should be consumed within two hours for the best texture experience. For photography enthusiasts, the natural light near the window seating between 2-4 PM provides ideal conditions for capturing these architectural desserts.

Practical Advice:

While walk-ins are accepted, calling ahead to reserve both a table and your desired pastries guarantees availability, especially during peak tourist seasons. The boutique enforces a strict no-photography policy in certain areas, so always ask permission before taking pictures. Payment by credit card is accepted, but having some cash on hand is recommended for small purchases under €20.

Maison Lenôtre's Time-Honored Tradition

Founded in 1957 by legendary pastry chef Gaston Lenôtre, Maison Lenôtre stands as one of Paris's most prestigious pâtisseries, particularly renowned for its exemplary religieuse pastries. These double-decker choux masterpieces, resembling a nun's habit, have been crafted with unwavering precision and sophistication at Lenôtre for over six decades.

The religieuse at Maison Lenôtre represents the pinnacle of French pastry craftsmanship, featuring two delicate choux puffs filled with rich crème pâtissière, adorned with fondant, and connected by a collar of precisely piped cream. While the classic chocolate variation remains their signature, Lenôtre's seasonal interpretations have earned equal acclaim among pastry enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €6.50-8.50 per religieuse
• Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Friday, 10:00-11:30 AM for freshest selection
• Pre-ordering: Recommended for special flavors or large quantities
• Dietary Notes: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs; no vegan options
• Multiple Locations: 8 boutiques across Paris
• Peak Hours: 3:00-6:00 PM (expect queues)

The Flagship Experience:

The Lenôtre flagship store on Avenue de Champs-Élysées offers the most extensive religieuse selection. Their chocolate religieuse, made with 70% Guanaja chocolate, showcases the perfect balance between the light choux pastry and rich filling. The boutique features a small seating area where customers can enjoy their pastries with Lenôtre's signature blend coffee. Insider tip: Visit on Thursday mornings when special seasonal flavors are typically introduced.

Location Details:

Address: 10 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Metro: Franklin D. Roosevelt (Lines 1, 9)

Pro Tips:

Time your visit during mid-morning hours when the pastries are freshly made but before the lunch crowd arrives. For photography enthusiasts, the boutique's natural lighting is ideal between 10:00 AM and noon, particularly near the front window display. Consider purchasing a selection of mini religieuses, which allows sampling multiple flavors while maintaining the authentic experience.

Practical Advice:

Religieuses are delicate pastries that should be consumed within 4-6 hours of purchase for best taste and texture. The boutique provides specialized carrying boxes, but avoid tilting them during transport. For visitors staying farther from the flagship location, Lenôtre's other boutiques maintain identical quality standards, though with slightly smaller selections.