8 Best Places for Authentic French Pastries in Paris

Looking for Paris's best authentic pastries? I've found eight incredible spots you won't want to miss! Du Pain Et Des Idées dazzles with historic charm and heavenly croissants, while Pierre Hermé revolutionizes macarons with innovative flavors. Don't skip Angelina's legendary Mont Blanc or Cédric Grolet's mind-bending trompe l'œil creations. From Stohrer's 1730 classics to Maison Mulot's artisanal delights, each patisserie offers unique specialties. Let's explore these sweet havens together!

Du Pain Et Des Idées: a Historic Bakery in Canal Saint-Martin

Nestled in the trendy Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood, Du Pain et des Idées stands as a demonstration of traditional French baking artistry. This historic bakery, housed in a building dating back to 1875, has been transformed by master baker Christophe Vasseur into one of Paris's most celebrated pastry destinations since 2002.

The bakery's reputation stems from its perfect marriage of historic charm and exceptional baking expertise. With its original mirrors, painted ceiling, and vintage woodwork, stepping into Du Pain et des Idées feels like traveling back in time, while the aromas of freshly baked croissants and pain au chocolat remind visitors why French pastries have earned their legendary status.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed weekends)
• Price Range: €1.20 – €5.50 per item
• Must-Try Items: Escargot pastries, croissants, pain des amis
• Peak Hours: 8:00-9:30 AM and 12:00-2:00 PM
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted
• Dietary Notes: Limited vegan/gluten-free options
• Languages: Basic English spoken

Signature Specialties:

The bakery's crowning achievement is the escargot pastry, a spiral-shaped creation available in various flavors, especially pistachio-chocolate and rum-raisin. Unlike traditional escargots found elsewhere, these feature a unique laminated dough that creates an exceptionally flaky texture. Insider tip: The red fruit variety is only available during summer months and sells out quickly.

Location and Atmosphere:

Situated at 34 Rue Yves Toudic in the 10th arrondissement, the bakery's authentic 19th-century storefront features original gold lettering and architectural details. The small interior space can get crowded, but the vintage atmosphere, complete with antique brass fixtures and weathered tile floors, makes the wait worthwhile. Insider tip: There's a small bench outside perfect for enjoying your pastries while watching local life unfold.

Pro Tips:

Arrive before 8:30 AM to avoid the longest queues and guarantee the best selection. While the bakery is known for its pastries, their traditional pain des amis (bread of friends) is equally remarkable and worth trying. Consider purchasing extra items to enjoy later, as they maintain their quality for 24-48 hours when properly stored.

Practical Advice:

The bakery's location in Canal Saint-Martin makes it an ideal starting point for exploring this hip neighborhood. Purchase your pastries and enjoy them along the canal's edge, just a two-minute walk away. While the bakery doesn't offer seating inside, numerous nearby cafes serve excellent coffee to complement your pastries, though they generally don't mind if you bring in items purchased from Du Pain et des Idées.

Pierre Hermé: The King of Macarons

Stepping into a Pierre Hermé boutique is entering the domain of pastry royalty. Dubbed the "Picasso of Pastry" by Vogue magazine, Pierre Hermé revolutionized the French macaron landscape by introducing innovative flavor combinations and elevating this simple cookie sandwich into a luxury gastronomic experience. His signature macarons have become a benchmark for excellence in the pastry world, drawing food enthusiasts from across the globe to his Parisian boutiques.

While macarons are his claim to fame, Hermé's mastery extends beyond these delicate treats to encompass a range of sophisticated pastries, chocolates, and confections. Each creation reflects his philosophy of pursuing unexpected flavor combinations while maintaining unwavering quality standards. Visitors can expect to discover both classic French favorites and avant-garde creations that push the boundaries of traditional pastry making.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €7.50-€29 for individual items; gift boxes from €25-€200
• Peak Hours: 2-5pm daily, especially weekends
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings, 10-11:30am
• Shelf Life: Macarons best consumed within 4 days
• Pre-ordering: Available online for specific collections
• Dietary Notes: Some seasonal vegan options available
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted

Flagship Store (Bonaparte)

The original boutique on Rue Bonaparte remains the quintessential Pierre Hermé experience. Located in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, this intimate shop showcases the full range of Hermé's creations. The boutique features signature collections like Infiniment Chocolate and the seasonal Fetish flavors. The space is small but efficiently designed, with knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the extensive selection. Insider tip: Visit during the first week of each month to try the newest flavor innovations before they're announced publicly.

Pro Tips:

To fully appreciate Pierre Hermé's macarons, let them come to room temperature for 20 minutes before consuming. This allows the ganache filling to soften slightly and the flavors to fully develop. For the best photography opportunities, visit the boutiques during morning hours when natural light streams through the windows and the displays are freshly arranged. Consider purchasing a variety box that includes both classic flavors (Infiniment Vanille, Mogador) and seasonal specialties to experience the full range of Hermé's creativity.

Practical Advice:

While Pierre Hermé boutiques are scattered throughout Paris, plan your visit to coincide with other activities in the area, as some locations can have long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. The shops are closed on major French holidays, and collections often sell out during special occasions like Valentine's Day and Christmas. If you're planning to bring macarons home, request a travel box specifically designed to protect these delicate treats during transport, and remember that they should be consumed within four days for best taste and texture.

Maison Mulot: A Saint-Germain-des-Prés Institution

Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Maison Mulot stands as a symbol of French pastry excellence since 1975. This celebrated pâtisserie combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques, creating an array of delectable treats that have earned it a devoted following among locals and tourists alike.

The storefront's elegant window displays showcase perfectly arranged rows of colorful macarons, gleaming éclairs, and artfully decorated seasonal tartes that draw passersby into this temple of French pastry. Inside, the carefully curated selection of viennoiseries, classic French pastries, and artisanal bread demonstrates why Maison Mulot has maintained its reputation as one of Paris's premier pastry destinations.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM, Sunday 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
• Price Range: €4-8 for individual pastries, €20-35 for celebration cakes
• Peak Times: 10:00 AM for fresh morning pastries, 4:00 PM for afternoon tea
• Payment Methods: Cash, major credit cards
• Specialty Items: Macarons, Saint-Honoré, Paris-Brest
• Seating: Limited outdoor seating available
• Pre-orders: Required 48 hours in advance for special occasions

Signature Offerings:

The house specialty, Mulot's Saint-Honoré, features perfectly caramelized choux puffs atop a delicate puff pastry base, filled with light vanilla cream and finished with hand-piped Chantilly. Their interpretation of this classic demonstrates the precision and expertise that defines the establishment.

Location & Accessibility:

76 Rue de Seine, 75006 Paris

Metro: Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Line 4) or Mabillon (Line 10)

The shop sits strategically between Boulevard Saint-Germain and Rue de Buci, making it an ideal stop during a Left Bank walking tour.

Insider Secret: Visit between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM when the afternoon batch of pastries emerges fresh from the kitchen, often including limited-edition seasonal creations not displayed in the morning.

Pro Tips:

Timing is everything at Maison Mulot. Arrive early morning (before 9:00 AM) for the freshest croissants and pain au chocolat, or opt for late afternoon when the shop is less crowded and the day's special pastries are fully stocked. Consider purchasing a selection of mini-pastries rather than full-sized versions to sample more varieties without overwhelming your palate.

Practical Advice:

Given the shop's popularity and limited space, plan to take your purchases to nearby Luxembourg Gardens for a picnic-style experience. During peak tourist season (July-August), visit on weekdays rather than weekends to avoid the longest queues. For special dietary requirements, communicate with staff in advance as options may be limited and not all ingredients are listed on display cards.

Angelina Paris: Home of the Famous Mont Blanc

Founded in 1903, Angelina Paris stands as an iconic institution in French pastry culture, drawing both locals and tourists to its flagship location on Rue de Rivoli. This belle époque tearoom, with its ornate interior and storied history, has served as a gathering place for Parisian nobility and fashion elite, including Coco Chanel and Proust, who regularly indulged in its legendary hot chocolate and pastries.

The crown jewel of Angelina's offerings is the Mont Blanc, a masterpiece of French patisserie that has remained virtually unchanged since its creation. This signature dessert features a delicate meringue base topped with light whipped cream and covered in delicate strands of chestnut cream, creating a visual and gustatory experience that pays homage to its namesake, the snow-capped Mont Blanc mountain.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
• Price Range: €6-15 for individual pastries; €20-40 for afternoon tea service
• Reservation Requirements: Recommended for afternoon tea, especially on weekends
• Wait Times: 30-60 minutes without reservation during peak hours
• Dietary Options: Limited gluten-free choices available
• Photography: Allowed, but no professional equipment
• Take-away Service: Available at separate counter

The Mont Blanc Experience

The signature Mont Blanc (€9.20) demands center stage in any visit to Angelina. The intricate dessert combines textures of crisp meringue, smooth whipped cream, and signature chestnut vermicelli created through a proprietary process. The pastry's complex assembly requires specialized equipment and techniques that have been carefully guarded for generations. Insider tip: Order the Mont Blanc to share alongside their famous hot chocolate (chocolat chaud) for the ultimate Angelina experience.

Location and Setting

Situated at 226 Rue de Rivoli, the flagship location offers stunning views of the Tuileries Garden. The interior features original Belle Époque décor, including ornate moldings, mirrors, and marble tables. While the main dining room often has long queues, few visitors know about the smaller salon at the back, which sometimes has shorter wait times.

Pro Tips:

Visit during off-peak hours (3:00-5:00 PM on weekdays) to avoid the longest queues and secure a table without a reservation. For the best photography opportunities, request a table near the front windows where natural light streams in through the historic facade. Consider visiting in autumn or winter when the Mont Blanc's chestnut flavors feel particularly appropriate and crowds are slightly thinner.

Practical Advice:

While Angelina has multiple locations throughout Paris, the Rue de Rivoli flagship offers the most authentic experience. During peak tourist season (June-August), arrive before 10:30 AM or after 4:00 PM to minimize wait times. The takeaway counter provides a convenient alternative for those short on time, though the ornate dining room experience is worth the wait at least once during your visit. Keep in mind that payments via credit card are accepted, but having some cash on hand is recommended for small purchases.

Cédric Grolet: Modern Mastery of French Pastries

When discussing modern French pastry artistry, few names command as much respect and admiration as Cédric Grolet. Named the World's Best Pastry Chef in 2018, Grolet has revolutionized traditional French pastries with his stunning visual presentations and innovative techniques, particularly through his signature "trompe l'oeil" fruits that appear realistic but reveal delicate pastry interiors.

At his flagship boutiques in Paris, Grolet presents a masterclass in contemporary French patisserie, combining classical techniques with modern aesthetics. His creations have become social media sensations, drawing both locals and tourists who often queue for hours to sample his renowned works, from his famous deconstructed fruits to his architectural takes on classic French desserts.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €7-20 per individual pastry
• Best Visiting Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Reservation Requirements: Not accepted; first-come, first-served basis
• Wait Times: 30-90 minutes during peak hours
• Photography: Allowed and encouraged
• Payment Methods: All major credit cards accepted
• Dietary Options: Some gluten-free options available

Le Meurice Location

Located within the opulent Le Meurice hotel at 228 Rue de Rivoli, this is Grolet's original boutique where his journey began. The shop offers his complete collection, including his famous trompe l'oeil fruits and classic French pastries with a modern twist. The boutique features a small standing area where customers can enjoy their purchases immediately.

Insider Tip: Visit between 2:00-4:00 PM on weekdays for shorter queues and the best selection of fresh pastries.

Opéra Location

Situated at 35 Avenue de l'Opéra, this newer boutique focuses on Grolet's innovative takes on traditional French viennoiserie. The space is more contemporary and offers a wider selection of breakfast pastries and bread-based creations.

Insider Tip: Pre-order is available for larger quantities of viennoiserie items if ordered 48 hours in advance.

Pro Tips:

The best strategy for experiencing Grolet's creations is to arrive early, particularly on weekdays when the queues are shorter. Consider visiting during shoulder season (March-April or September-October) when tourist crowds are thinner. For the best photography opportunities, choose a seat near the windows if available, as the natural light perfectly captures the intricate details of his pastries.

Practical Advice:

While Grolet's pastries are undeniably expensive, they represent the pinnacle of French pastry craftsmanship. Take advantage of the "du jour" selections, which are often slightly less expensive than the signature items but equally impressive. Remember that these delicate creations are best consumed within a few hours of purchase, so plan your visit according to when you'll be able to enjoy them at their peak freshness.

Stohrer: Paris's Oldest Patisserie Since 1730

Nestled in the heart of Paris's 2nd arrondissement, Stohrer stands as a living embodiment of French pastry excellence, holding the distinction of being the oldest patisserie in Paris. Founded by Nicolas Stohrer, who served as pastry chef to King Louis XV, this historic establishment has been crafting exquisite pastries since 1730, maintaining its reputation for nearly three centuries.

The patisserie's legacy extends beyond its age – it's credited with creating the beloved Baba au Rhum and perfecting classics like the Puit d'Amour. Walking into Stohrer feels like stepping into a museum of culinary arts, with its original painted ceiling by Paul Baudry, ornate mirrors, and classic wooden display cases that have earned it historic monument status.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Price Range: €4-8 for individual pastries
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings before 10 AM
• Location: 51 Rue Montorgueil, 75002 Paris
• Payment Methods: Cash, major credit cards
• Queue Time: 5-20 minutes depending on time of day
• Photography: Allowed inside, but be respectful of other customers

Signature Offerings:

The patisserie's crown jewel remains the Baba au Rhum, a rum-soaked brioche that King Louis XV's father-in-law introduced to France. Stohrer's version features perfectly balanced rum-soaked cake topped with fresh cream, priced at €6.50. Their Puit d'Amour ("Well of Love") combines delicate puff pastry with vanilla cream and caramelized sugar, creating a heavenly combination that's been perfected over centuries.

Hidden Gem: Behind the main counter, keen observers might spot vintage recipe books dating back to the 18th century, still referenced by the current pastry chefs to maintain authentic techniques and flavors.

Pro Tips:

The best time to experience Stohrer is during weekday mornings when fresh batches emerge from the ovens and locals stop by for their morning pastries. Request your treats "à emporter" (to go) and enjoy them at the nearby Square Montholon, where you can savor each bite while people-watching. For the freshest selection, arrive before 10 AM when most pastries are newly made and displays are fully stocked.

Practical Advice:

While visiting Stohrer, remember that the shop can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider buying extra pastries to enjoy later, as they package items beautifully for transport. Keep in mind that some delicate pastries are best consumed within a few hours of purchase. During summer months, request an ice pack if you plan to carry cream-based pastries for more than 30 minutes.

La Pâtisserie Du Meurice by Cédric Grolet: Luxury Meets Innovation

Nestled within the prestigious Le Meurice hotel on rue de Rivoli, La Pâtisserie Du Meurice represents the pinnacle of French pastry artistry under the masterful direction of celebrity pastry chef Cédric Grolet. Known worldwide for his stunning trompe-l'œil fruits and innovative takes on classic French pastries, this boutique patisserie has become a pilgrimage site for dessert enthusiasts and food photographers alike.

The establishment marries the timeless elegance of traditional French pastry-making with bold, contemporary creativity. Grolet's signature creations, particularly his sculpted fruit desserts that look exactly like their natural counterparts, have revolutionized the Parisian pastry scene and earned him multiple accolades, including World's Best Pastry Chef in 2018.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Price Range: €15-25 per individual pastry
• Reservation Status: No reservations needed for takeaway; tea room requires advance booking
• Wait Times: Typically 20-45 minutes during peak hours
• Payment Methods: All major credit cards accepted
• Dietary Options: Some gluten-free options available
• Best Times to Visit: Weekdays, 2:00-4:00 PM for shorter queues
• Photography: Allowed in shop, limited in tea room

The Signature Experience

Grolet's pastry shop offers an ever-changing selection of artistic creations, with the trompe-l'œil fruits taking center stage. These architectural masterpieces feature intricate shells of spray-painted white chocolate, concealing delicate mousse and fruit compote interiors. The boutique's minimalist design, with its marble counters and sophisticated lighting, creates the perfect backdrop for these edible works of art. Insider tip: New seasonal creations are typically introduced on Wednesdays, making it the ideal day to discover exclusive items.

Pro Tips:

For the best experience, arrive 30 minutes before opening to secure a spot at the front of the line and facilitate the finest selection of pastries. Photography enthusiasts should visit during early afternoon hours when natural light streams through the windows, creating favorable conditions for capturing the detailed craftsmanship of each piece. Consider purchasing multiple items to share, as portions are generous and prices reflect the exceptional quality and artistry.

Practical Advice:

While the shop accepts walk-ins, the pastries often sell out by late afternoon, especially on weekends. Keep in mind that these delicate creations are best consumed within a few hours of purchase and should not be transported for long periods. The shop provides specialized packaging for safe transport, but it's advisable to have a plan for enjoying your purchases soon after acquisition. Consider making your visit part of a larger food tour of the 1st arrondissement, as the area hosts several other renowned patisseries and chocolate shops.

Ladurée: The Iconic Champs-Élysées Patisserie

Nestled along the world-famous Champs-Élysées, Ladurée stands as a symbol of French pastry excellence since 1862. This legendary patisserie has become synonymous with Parisian luxury and refinement, particularly renowned for creating the modern version of the macaron – two delicate almond meringue shells joined by a smooth ganache filling.

Beyond its signature macarons, Ladurée represents the epitome of French pastry craftsmanship, offering an immersive experience in a setting that combines Second Empire elegance with contemporary Parisian chic. The flagship store's mint-green facade and ornate gold lettering have become as iconic as the treats within, making it a mandatory stop for both serious gourmands and curious tourists seeking an authentic taste of Parisian indulgence.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM daily
• Price Range: €5-8 per macaron box, €6-12 for individual pastries
• Peak Times: 2:00-5:00 PM for afternoon tea
• Reservation Required: Yes, for tea salon
• Dietary Options: Some gluten-free items available
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted
• Languages: Staff speaks English and French

The Tea Salon Experience

The upper floor houses an elegant tea salon where guests can enjoy pastries in a refined atmosphere adorned with painted ceilings and crystal chandeliers. Reservations are essential, particularly during peak hours. The signature Ladurée afternoon tea (€45-65 per person) includes a selection of pastries, finger sandwiches, and the house's exclusive tea blends. Insider tip: Request a window seat in advance for views of the Champs-Élysées.

Macaron Selection

The boutique offers over 20 permanent flavors plus seasonal specialties. Classic combinations like vanilla and chocolate share space with innovative creations such as rose petal and salted caramel. The macarons are made fresh daily at their production facility outside Paris and delivered each morning. Insider tip: Limited edition flavors are released monthly and often sell out by early afternoon.

The Pastry Counter

Beyond macarons, Ladurée's pastry selection features exquisite creations like the Saint-Honoré, Paris-Brest, and their signature Ispahan. Each pastry is meticulously crafted and presented like a jewel in temperature-controlled display cases. Insider tip: Ask about the "pâtisserie du moment" – a special pastry created by the chef that isn't listed on the regular menu.

Pro Tips:

To experience Ladurée at its best, arrive early (before 10 AM) when the morning batch of pastries is freshly displayed and the crowds are minimal. For photography enthusiasts, the soft morning light through the historic windows creates perfect conditions for capturing the patisserie's elegant interior. Purchase macarons in the signature gift boxes, which keep them fresh for up to three days when properly stored.

Practical Advice:

During peak tourist season (June-August), consider visiting the lesser-known Ladurée location on Rue Bonaparte in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, which offers the same quality but with shorter queues. If purchasing macarons to take home, request a "transport box" designed to protect the delicate shells during travel, and avoid refrigeration as it can affect their texture. The staff can provide detailed storage instructions in English.