8 Best Places for Authentic Paris-Brest Pastry in Paris

Looking for Paris's best Paris-Brest pastries? I've discovered eight amazing spots where you'll find this iconic ring-shaped choux masterpiece! Start at historic Stohrer (Paris's oldest patisserie), then try Jacques Genin's modern take and Cyril Lignac's caramelized almond version. Don't miss Maison Lenôtre, Du Pain Et Des Idées, La Maison Du Chocolat, Carl Marletti, and Sebastien Gaudard. Each patisserie brings its own special touch to this cycling-inspired dessert – let's explore their unique twists!

Stohrer: The Historic Birthplace of Paris-Brest Excellence

Founded in 1730, Stohrer stands as Paris's oldest patisserie and holds a special place in the history of French pastry-making. This historic establishment, located in the heart of the 2nd arrondissement, has been crafting exceptional Paris-Brest pastries for generations, maintaining the same exacting standards that made it a favorite among French royalty and discerning locals alike.

The Paris-Brest at Stohrer represents more than just a pastry; it's a piece of living culinary history. The shop's ornate interior, decorated with original frescoes from 1864, provides the ideal backdrop for sampling their signature creation, which features a perfectly crisp choux pastry ring filled with praline cream that's been refined over centuries of expertise.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Price Range: €6.50-7.50 per Paris-Brest
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings, before 11 AM
• Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards accepted
• Seating: Limited standing room only
• Pre-ordering: Available for large quantities
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, and dairy

The Stohrer Experience

At 51 Rue Montorgueil, Stohrer's storefront window display alone is worth the visit, featuring artfully arranged pastries that demonstrate why this establishment has survived nearly three centuries. The Paris-Brest here distinguishes itself through its particularly generous praline cream filling, made with hazelnuts from Piedmont, Italy. The choux pastry achieves the perfect balance between crispness and tenderness, while the praline cream offers a sophisticated nuttiness that's neither too sweet nor too heavy. Insider tip: Ask for your Paris-Brest to be packaged in their signature vintage-style box – it's perfect for gifting and makes for an excellent souvenir.

Pro Tips

Time your visit to coincide with the fresh-baked batches that typically emerge from the ovens around 10 AM. While the shop can get crowded, especially on weekends, arriving just as they open at 7:30 AM ensures the best selection and a more relaxed shopping experience. Consider purchasing a small selection of their other historic pastries alongside your Paris-Brest to create a thorough tasting experience of French pastry evolution.

Practical Advice

While Stohrer doesn't offer seating, the nearby Square Montholon provides a charming spot to enjoy your pastries. The Paris-Brest is best consumed within a few hours of purchase for ideal texture, though it can last up to 24 hours if refrigerated. For the authentic experience, allow the pastry to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before eating, as this brings out the full complexity of the praline cream's flavors.

Jacques Genin: A Modern Master's Take on Tradition

Tucked away in the trendy Marais district, Jacques Genin's boutique represents the pinnacle of modern French pastry craftsmanship, where the Paris-Brest has been elevated to an art form. This celebrated chocolatier and pâtissier has revolutionized the classic wheel-shaped pastry while maintaining its essential character, creating what many consider the perfect balance between innovation and tradition.

What sets Genin's Paris-Brest apart is his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to using only the finest ingredients. His version features a perfectly crisp choux pastry ring, filled with a praline cream that's remarkably less sweet than traditional versions, allowing the pure hazelnut flavor to shine through. The result is a pastry that has earned a devoted following among both locals and international dessert enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €7.50-8.50 per individual Paris-Brest
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:00-19:00 (closed Mondays)
• Advance Orders: Recommended for whole Paris-Brest
• Seating Available: Yes, tea salon on premises
• Payment Methods: Credit cards accepted, cash preferred
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, and dairy; no gluten-free options

The Signature Experience

Genin's Paris-Brest stands out for its architectural precision and generous filling-to-pastry ratio. Located at 133 Rue de Turenne in the 3rd arrondissement, the boutique offers these pastries fresh daily, though they often sell out by mid-afternoon. The praline cream is made in-house using a secret blend of hazelnuts and almonds, creating a uniquely intense nutty flavor. Insider tip: Visit between 2-4 PM on weekdays for the freshest batch and shortest queues.

Pro Tips:

For the best experience, pair the Paris-Brest with Genin's signature hot chocolate, served in the elegant tea salon. The contrast between the crisp pastry and rich chocolate creates an unforgettable tasting experience. Consider purchasing a whole Paris-Brest (available by pre-order) for special occasions – they're considerably more impressive than individual portions and serve 6-8 people.

Practical Advice:

Photography is permitted in the boutique but not in the tea salon. During summer months, the pastries are best consumed on-site as the praline cream can soften quickly in warm weather. If taking away, request an ice pack for longer journeys, and consume within 4 hours for the ideal texture and flavor experience.

La Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac: Celebrity Chef's Perfect Ring

La Pâtisserie de Cyril Lignac represents the pinnacle of Paris-Brest craftsmanship in the City of Light. This celebrated establishment, helmed by renowned chef Cyril Lignac, has earned its reputation as one of Paris's premier destinations for this classic French pastry. The signature ring-shaped choux pastry, filled with praline cream and adorned with caramelized almonds, exemplifies the perfect balance between traditional technique and modern refinement.

What sets Lignac's Paris-Brest apart is his meticulous attention to the praline cream's texture and the precise ratio of filling to pastry. Unlike many contemporary interpretations that prioritize visual appeal over taste, Lignac's version maintains the authentic characteristics of the original 1910 recipe while incorporating subtle refinements that elevate the overall experience.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €6.50-7.50 per individual portion
• Best Time to Visit: Tuesday-Friday mornings for freshest selection
• Reservation: Not required, but pre-orders recommended for whole rings
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, gluten, and dairy
• Storage: Best consumed within 4-6 hours of purchase
• Multiple locations across Paris
• Peak Hours: 11:00-14:00 and 16:00-18:00

The flagship location at 24 Rue Paul Bert in the 11th arrondissement offers the most consistent quality and freshest selections. The Paris-Brest here is crafted throughout the day in small batches, ensuring ideal texture and temperature. The praline cream achieves its signature smoothness through a three-day preparation process, incorporating both French and Italian hazelnuts for complex flavor depth. An often-overlooked detail: the choux pastry contains a hint of orange blossom water, a Lignac signature that subtly enhances the overall taste profile.

Pro Tips:

Visit during the morning hours, ideally around 9:30 AM, when the first batch emerges fresh from the kitchen. While many patisseries prepare their Paris-Brest the night before, Lignac's team begins production at dawn, ensuring maximum freshness. For photography enthusiasts, the shop's natural lighting is best between 10:00-11:00 AM, when sunlight streams through the front windows, highlighting the pastry's golden-brown exterior and glistening praline topping.

Practical Advice:

During peak tourist season (June-August), consider visiting the less crowded Rue de Martyrs location. While all Lignac locations maintain identical quality standards, this shop often provides a more relaxed atmosphere for savoring your Paris-Brest. The staff speaks English and can accommodate special requests for packaging if you're planning to transport the pastry. Remember that the shop's air conditioning can affect the texture if you plan to wait before consuming – request your Paris-Brest at room temperature for maximum enjoyment.

Maison Lenôtre: Time-Honored Craftsmanship Since 1957

Founded by legendary pastry chef Gaston Lenôtre, Maison Lenôtre stands as a pillar of French pastry excellence, particularly renowned for its interpretation of the classic Paris-Brest. This iconic pastry house has maintained its reputation for over six decades by combining traditional techniques with meticulous attention to detail, earning its place among Paris's most prestigious pâtisseries.

The Paris-Brest at Maison Lenôtre exemplifies the perfect balance between innovation and tradition. Their version features a precisely piped choux pastry ring, delicately filled with a praline cream that's become the standard against which other Paris-Brests are measured. The establishment's commitment to quality has earned it numerous accolades and a loyal following among both locals and international pastry enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €6.50-8.50 per individual Paris-Brest
• Best Time to Visit: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00-11:30 AM for freshest selection
• Multiple Locations: 6 boutiques across Paris
• Pre-ordering: Recommended for whole-size Paris-Brests
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, dairy, and eggs
• Shelf Life: Best consumed within 4 hours of purchase

The flagship boutique, located in the 16th arrondissement at 61 rue Kleber, offers the most extensive selection of Lenôtre's creations. The Paris-Brest here comes in both individual and sharing sizes, with the praline cream made from a closely guarded recipe dating back to Gaston Lenôtre himself. The boutique features an elegant interior that reflects the refinement of their pastries, with knowledgeable staff who can explain the intricate crafting process. Insider tip: Visit on Wednesday mornings when the chef sometimes creates limited-edition variations of the classic recipe.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Lenôtre Paris-Brest experience, time your visit during mid-morning when the pastries are at their freshest and the cream filling is at the perfect temperature. The praline cream is most flavorful at room temperature, so if purchasing to take away, allow 15-20 minutes before consuming. Consider pairing your Paris-Brest with Lenôtre's signature blend of coffee, specifically curated to complement their pastries' flavor profiles.

Practical Advice:

While walk-in purchases are possible, calling ahead to reserve your Paris-Brest is recommended, especially during weekends or holidays. The boutique can arrange for special packaging for transport, though it's best to consume the pastry within a few hours of purchase. For international visitors, the staff speaks English and can provide detailed information about ingredients and storage recommendations. Payment is accepted in all major credit cards, and a loyalty program offers regular customers special benefits and early access to seasonal variations.

Du Pain Et Des Idées: Artisanal Innovation in the 10TH

Nestled in the vibrant 10th arrondissement, Du Pain et des Idées stands as a representation of Parisian artisanal baking excellence, particularly renowned for its exceptional Paris-Brest pastry. Founded by Christophe Vasseur, who left a career in fashion to pursue his baking passion, this celebrated boulangerie has transformed into a pilgrimage site for pastry enthusiasts seeking authenticity and innovation in equal measure.

The bakery's Paris-Brest, a ring-shaped choux pastry filled with praline cream, exemplifies the perfect balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern refinement. Vasseur's version has earned particular acclaim for its intensely nutty praline filling and the impeccable texture of its choux pastry, making it a standout even in a city renowned for its pastries.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €4.50-5.50 per Paris-Brest
• Opening Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00-19:00 (Closed weekends)
• Peak Times: 8:00-9:30 and 12:00-14:00
• Pre-ordering: Available for large quantities
• Seasonal Variations: Special editions during holidays
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, and dairy

The Signature Paris-Brest Experience:

The bakery's version stands out for its exceptionally crisp choux pastry, which provides a satisfying contrast to the silky praline cream within. Located at 34 Rue Yves Toudic, the historic storefront features original 19th-century decorations, creating an authentic Parisian atmosphere. Insider tip: Ask about the day's baking schedule – arriving shortly after a fresh batch emerges from the oven provides an unparalleled tasting experience.

Pro Tips:

To truly maximize your Paris-Brest experience at Du Pain et des Idées, arrive before 9:00 AM on weekdays to avoid the longest queues while ensuring the freshest selection. The pastry pairs excellently with their house-blend coffee, and many regulars recommend eating it immediately at one of the standing tables rather than taking it home, as the texture is at its peak when fresh.

Practical Advice:

While credit cards are accepted, having cash on hand can speed up transactions during busy periods. The bakery can get quite crowded, so consider visiting during off-peak hours (typically 15:00-17:00) for a more relaxed experience. Photography is permitted inside, but be mindful of other customers, and remember that the staff's priority is serving customers rather than photo opportunities.

La Maison Du Chocolat: Praline Paradise

When it comes to experiencing the perfect Paris-Brest pastry in Paris, La Maison du Chocolat stands as a beacon of excellence, particularly renowned for their praline-focused interpretation of this classic French dessert. The prestigious chocolate house, founded by Robert Linxe in 1977, has elevated the traditional Paris-Brest by incorporating their signature chocolate craftsmanship into the praline filling.

This location offers a refined take on the classic wheel-shaped choux pastry, distinguished by its rich praline cream filling that demonstrates an exceptional balance between nuttiness and sweetness. Their version features a precisely piped choux ring, decorated with sliced almonds and dusted with powdered sugar, encasing a silky praline cream that showcases the house's expertise in working with premium nuts and chocolate.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €7-9 per individual Paris-Brest
• Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Friday, 10:30-11:30 AM for freshest selection
• Advance Orders: Recommended for whole-size Paris-Brest
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, and dairy; no gluten-free options
• Seating: Limited café seating available at select locations
• Payment: Major credit cards accepted, contactless payments welcome

The Signature Experience

La Maison du Chocolat's Paris-Brest exemplifies their commitment to perfection, featuring a praline cream made from carefully selected hazelnuts and almonds, roasted and ground in-house. Located at multiple addresses across Paris, with their flagship store at 225 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, the boutique offers both individual portions and larger sizes perfect for sharing. Hours typically run from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM, though times may vary by location. Insider tip: Visit their Carrousel du Louvre location for shorter queues and the same exceptional quality.

Pro Tips:

The best experience comes from eating the Paris-Brest within a few hours of purchase, as the choux pastry maintains its prime texture during this window. For photography enthusiasts, the natural lighting near the boutique windows during late morning provides the ideal environment for capturing the pastry's elegant presentation. Consider pairing the Paris-Brest with their signature hot chocolate for an elevated tasting experience.

Practical Advice:

During peak tourist season (June-August and December), visit during weekday mornings to avoid the longest queues. The boutique can package the Paris-Brest for takeaway with special thermal bags available for purchase, ensuring the delicate pastry maintains its structure during transport. For best enjoyment, avoid storing in the refrigerator for more than a few hours, as this can affect the texture of both the choux pastry and the praline cream.

Carl Marletti: The Left Bank's Crown Jewel

Nestled in the charming 5th arrondissement, Carl Marletti's patisserie stands as an emblem of French pastry excellence, particularly renowned for its exceptional Paris-Brest. This celebrated pastry chef, who earned his stripes working at prestigious establishments like Le Bristol, has created a boutique that attracts both locals and tourists seeking authentic Parisian pastry experiences.

The Paris-Brest at Carl Marletti distinguishes itself through its perfectly proportioned ring of choux pastry, filled with a praline cream that strikes an ideal balance between richness and lightness. The exterior maintains a delicate crunch while housing a silky interior that showcases Marletti's masterful technique and commitment to quality ingredients.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €6.50-7.50 per individual Paris-Brest
• Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00-11:30 AM for freshest selection
• Pre-ordering: Recommended for weekends and holidays
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, and dairy; no gluten-free options
• Seating: No on-site seating available
• Payment: Credit cards accepted (minimum purchase may apply)

Location Details:

Situated at 51 Rue Censier in the 5th arrondissement, Carl Marletti's boutique is easily accessible from the Censier-Daubenton metro station. The shop operates Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, closing for lunch between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM. While the entire pastry selection impresses, the Paris-Brest has become a signature item that regularly sells out by late afternoon. Insider tip: Call ahead to reserve your Paris-Brest if visiting after 3:00 PM.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Paris-Brest experience, arrive during mid-morning when the pastries are at their freshest and the praline cream is at the perfect temperature. Avoid Saturdays if possible, as the shop becomes extremely busy with local weekend shoppers. If you're planning to enjoy the pastry immediately, ask for it to be packaged separately from other items to maintain its delicate structure.

Practical Advice:

The shop doesn't provide seating, but the nearby Jardin des Plantes offers a perfect spot to enjoy your pastry. During summer months, request an ice pack if you're not consuming the Paris-Brest within an hour, as the praline cream is temperature-sensitive. Photography is allowed inside the shop, but be mindful of other customers and ask permission before taking extensive photos of the display cases.

Sebastien Gaudard: Belle Époque Beauty

Nestled in the heart of Paris's 9th arrondissement, Sebastien Gaudard's patisserie stands as an embodiment of classic French pastry craftsmanship. This Belle Époque treasure, with its elegant vintage interior and gleaming display cases, has earned a reputation as one of the finest destinations for authentic Paris-Brest pastry in the capital.

The establishment's dedication to perfecting this iconic wheel-shaped dessert makes it a mandatory stop for pastry enthusiasts. Gaudard's interpretation of the Paris-Brest stays true to its 1910 origins while incorporating subtle refinements that elevate the classic praline cream filling and choux pastry to new heights.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €6.50-7.50 per individual Paris-Brest
• Peak Hours: 2:00-5:00 PM (weekends especially busy)
• Advance Orders: Recommended for large sizes or multiple pieces
• Seating: Limited café seating available
• Payment: Credit cards accepted (minimum purchase may apply)
• Storage: Best consumed within 4 hours of purchase
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, and dairy; no gluten-free options

The Signature Paris-Brest

Gaudard's version features perfectly piped rings of pâte à choux, delicately crisp and golden brown, filled with a silky praline cream that strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and nuttiness. The pastry is finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and scattered toasted almonds. Located at 22 Rue des Martyrs, the shop operates Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM. Insider tip: Visit between 9:00-10:00 AM to watch fresh batches emerging from the kitchen and guarantee the crispiest choux pastry.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to enjoy a Paris-Brest is within hours of its preparation when the contrast between crisp exterior and creamy filling is at its peak. During warmer months, request a cooling pack if you're not planning immediate consumption. For the full experience, pair with their house-blend coffee, specially selected to complement the praline notes.

Practical Advice:

While tempting to photograph, remember that the shop gets busy, and staff prefer customers to make their selections efficiently. If planning to enjoy your pastry later, keep the box level during transport and avoid refrigeration, as it can compromise the texture. For the best experience, consume at room temperature and request your Paris-Brest be packaged separately from other pastries to maintain its delicate structure.