9 Best Places for Authentic Profiteroles in Paris

9 Best Places for Authentic Profiteroles in Paris

I've discovered nine amazing spots in Paris where you'll find the most authentic profiteroles! Start at Stohrer, the city's oldest patisserie and birthplace of this iconic dessert, then explore modern interpretations at L'éclair De Génie and Ladurée Bonaparte. From Belle Époque elegance at Angelina to street-style treats at Le Choux D'enfer, each location offers its own magical take – from €3.50 to €25 per serving. Let me guide you through these pastry paradises!

Stohrer – The Historic Birthplace of Parisian Profiteroles

parisian profiteroles historical origin

Nestled in the heart of Paris's 2nd arrondissement, Stohrer stands as the city's oldest patisserie and the legendary birthplace of Parisian profiteroles. Founded in 1730 by Nicolas Stohrer, former pastry chef to King Louis XV, this historic establishment has been crafting exquisite pastries for nearly three centuries, maintaining its reputation as the premier destination for authentic French profiteroles.

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The patisserie's elegant façade, adorned with intricate wooden details and classic gold lettering, welcomes visitors into a world where time seems to stand still. Inside, the shop's original mirrors, painted ceiling, and marble counters transport guests to the golden age of French pastry-making, while the delicate aroma of fresh-baked choux pastry promises an unforgettable culinary experience.

Quick Facts:

  • Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Price Range: €6-8 per profiterole serving
  • Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings or mid-afternoon to avoid crowds
  • Dietary Notes: Traditional recipe contains dairy and eggs
  • Photography: Allowed inside, but be respectful of other customers
  • Location: 51 Rue Montorgueil, 75002 Paris

The Stohrer Experience

At Stohrer, the profiteroles follow the original 18th-century recipe, featuring perfectly crafted choux pastry filled with vanilla bean crème pâtissière and topped with rich dark chocolate sauce. The pastries are made fresh throughout the day, ensuring ideal texture and temperature. The establishment offers both eat-in service at their small counter area and takeaway options, with special packaging designed to maintain the integrity of these delicate treats.

Insider Tip: Visit between 2:00-4:00 PM when fresh batches typically emerge from the kitchen, and ask for "le choix du chef" – the chef's selection – which sometimes includes experimental variations not displayed in the main case.

Pro Tips

The best way to experience Stohrer's profiteroles is to order them for immediate consumption. While the pastry shop offers takeaway boxes, the delicate nature of profiteroles means they're best enjoyed within 30 minutes of serving. True connoisseurs know to request extra chocolate sauce, which is made in-house using a blend of three different chocolate varieties – a closely guarded secret recipe that dates back generations.

Practical Advice

While Stohrer accepts credit cards, keeping cash on hand is recommended as the card machine occasionally experiences issues during peak times. Consider combining your visit with a walk along Rue Montorgueil, one of Paris's most charming market streets, where you can sample other local delicacies. If planning to photograph your experience, morning light provides the best natural illumination through the shop's historic windows, creating perfect conditions for capturing both the architectural details and the gleaming pastry displays.

L'éclair De Génie – Modern Mastery of Choux Pastry

modern choux pastry innovations

Nestled in the trendy Marais district, L'éclair De Génie represents the evolution of traditional French pastry craftsmanship into contemporary artistry. Founded by pastry virtuoso Christophe Adam, this boutique has revolutionized the classic éclair while maintaining an equally impressive mastery over profiteroles, demonstrating how traditional choux pastry can be reimagined for the modern palate.

While the shop may be famous for its creative éclairs, the profiteroles here deserve special recognition for their perfect balance of innovation and tradition. Each profiterole showcases the technical precision that made Adam famous during his tenure at Fauchon, combined with unexpected flavor combinations and artistic presentations that transform these beloved pastries into edible works of art.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €6-12 per serving of profiteroles
  • Peak Hours: 2-5pm on weekends
  • Reservations: Not required, but expect queues during peak hours
  • Dietary Options: Traditional and seasonal variations available
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for freshest selection
  • Payment: Credit cards accepted (minimum purchase €10)
  • Photography: Allowed and encouraged, best lighting near window seats

The signature profiteroles at L'éclair De Génie feature perfectly crisp choux shells filled with silky vanilla bean crème pâtissière, topped with a glossy chocolate sauce that's tempered to achieve the perfect crack when broken with a spoon. This modern take on the classic dessert incorporates seasonal elements, such as fresh berries or gold leaf, elevating it beyond the traditional café offering.

Location: 14 Rue Pavée, 75004 Paris

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-19:00

Insider Tip: Visit on Thursdays when new weekly special flavors are introduced, often featuring limited-edition profiterole variations not found in their regular menu.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate profiterole experience, time your visit for mid-morning (around 11:00) when the fresh batches are typically ready and the tourist crowds haven't yet arrived. Ask for your profiteroles "à emporter" (to go) and enjoy them in the nearby Place des Vosges for a quintessential Parisian moment. The shop's temperature-controlled packaging guarantees your pastries will maintain their integrity for up to an hour.

Practical Advice:

While L'éclair De Génie accepts walk-ins, orders of six or more servings should be placed at least 24 hours in advance, especially during peak tourist season (July-August) or holidays. The shop offers special packaging for transport if you're planning to carry your treats for more than 30 minutes, and the staff can advise on the best way to store and serve them for maximum enjoyment.

Ladurée Bonaparte – Royal Treatment of a Classic

classic french pastry luxury

Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Ladurée Bonaparte stands as a symbol of Parisian pastry excellence, particularly renowned for its exceptional profiteroles. This historic location, housed in a stunning 18th-century building, offers visitors more than just desserts – it provides an authentic glimpse into the refined world of French patisserie, where profiteroles are elevated to an art form.

The Bonaparte location distinguishes itself from other Ladurée outposts through its intimate salon de thé atmosphere and meticulously crafted profiteroles. Each choux pastry is prepared fresh daily, filled with premium Bourbon vanilla cream, and draped in a signature chocolate sauce that's become legendary among pastry enthusiasts and locals alike.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €12-18 per serving of profiteroles
  • Reservation: Recommended for afternoon tea service, essential on weekends
  • Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM daily
  • Dietary Options: Traditional and seasonal variations available
  • Wait Times: 15-45 minutes without reservation
  • Special Services: Take-away available, gift packaging offered

The Signature Profiterole Experience:

The classic profiterole plate at Ladurée Bonaparte features three perfectly sized choux puffs, each demonstrating the precise balance between crisp exterior and tender interior that marks superior craftsmanship. The chocolate sauce, made with single-origin chocolate, is served warm in a silver sauce boat, allowing guests to control their desired amount of indulgence. Insider tip: Request your profiteroles "à la minute" to guarantee the pastry maintains its ideal texture.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate profiterole experience, visit between 3:00 and 5:00 PM when the pastries are freshest and the crowds are thinner. Consider pairing your profiteroles with Ladurée's house-blend tea, specifically created to complement their pastries. For photographers, the window seats offer the best natural lighting for capturing these photogenic desserts.

Practical Advice:

Located at 21 Rue Bonaparte, the establishment is easily accessible from the Saint-Germain-des-Prés metro station. During peak tourist season (June-August), arrive before 2:00 PM or after 6:00 PM to avoid the longest waits. While walk-ins are accepted, calling ahead to reserve a table, especially for groups larger than two, will facilitate a smoother experience. The staff speaks both French and English, and credit cards are widely accepted, though having some cash on hand is recommended for small purchases.

Angelina Paris – Belle Époque Elegance

timeless parisian fashion elegance

Nestled in the heart of Paris on the elegant Rue de Rivoli, Angelina Paris stands as a symbol of the city's rich culinary heritage and Belle Époque grandeur. Since 1903, this legendary tearoom has been serving exquisite pastries to Parisian elite and cultural icons, including Coco Chanel and Proust, who regularly frequented its ornate halls.

The establishment's profiteroles represent the pinnacle of French pastry craftsmanship, featuring perfectly crisp choux pastry filled with silky vanilla cream and draped in rich chocolate sauce. While Angelina may be famous for its hot chocolate, the profiteroles have earned their own devoted following among dessert enthusiasts and culinary tourists seeking authentic Parisian experiences.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €9-15 for profiterole serving
  • Reservation recommended for lunch/tea time (13:00-17:00)
  • Wait times without reservation: 30-60 minutes peak season
  • Dress Code: Smart casual
  • Vegetarian-friendly
  • Multiple locations, but Rue de Rivoli flagship is most iconic
  • Take-away option available

The flagship location at 226 Rue de Rivoli showcases stunning Belle Époque interior design with elaborate moldings, mirrors, and chandeliers that transport visitors to Paris's golden age. The profiteroles here are served with theatrical flair – warm chocolate sauce poured tableside over three perfectly golden pastry puffs. Operating hours are 8:30-19:30 daily, with slightly reduced hours on weekends. Insider tip: Request a table in the back room near the mirrors for the best atmosphere and photography opportunities.

Pro Tips:

Visit during off-peak hours (before 11:00 or after 16:00) to avoid the longest waits and secure a prime table location. Consider ordering the profiteroles as part of the afternoon tea service for the complete Angelina experience. The kitchen prepares fresh batches of choux pastry throughout the day, but morning visitors often enjoy the crispest textures.

For the most memorable experience, combine a visit to Angelina with a stroll through the adjacent Tuileries Garden. Reserve online during peak tourist season (June-August and December), and remember that the Rue de Rivoli location accepts major credit cards and contactless payments. For solo travelers or small groups, the counter seating offers a more casual alternative to the main dining room while still delivering the full Angelina experience.

La Pâtisserie Du Meurice – Michelin-Starred Perfection

michelin starred dessert excellence

Nestled within the opulent Le Meurice hotel, La Pâtisserie du Meurice stands as an indication of French pastry excellence under the guidance of celebrated pastry chef Cédric Grolet. The patisserie's profiteroles have earned a reputation as some of Paris's finest, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques that elevate this classic French dessert to new heights.

These exceptional profiteroles showcase perfectly crisp choux pastry shells filled with silky vanilla bean crème pâtissière and topped with a rich chocolate sauce that's prepared tableside. The attention to detail and premium ingredients reflect the establishment's Michelin-starred heritage, making it a must-visit destination for dessert enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of Parisian pastry craftsmanship.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €18-25 per serving
  • Reservation Required: Yes, especially for afternoon tea service
  • Best Times: Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Dress Code: Smart casual
  • Dietary Options: Traditional recipe only, no modifications
  • Payment Methods: All major credit cards accepted
  • Languages: English-speaking staff available

The Profiterole Experience:

The signature profiteroles at La Pâtisserie du Meurice are served in sets of three, each crafted to precise specifications. The choux pastry achieves the perfect balance between delicate crispness and tender bite, while the vanilla cream filling is made fresh daily using Madagascar vanilla beans. The chocolate sauce, made with single-origin chocolate from Venezuela, is heated to exactly 63°C before being dramatically poured over the profiteroles at your table.

Location and Logistics:

La Pâtisserie du Meurice

228 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris

Open Tuesday-Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Advance reservations highly recommended

Insider tip: Request a window seat in the salon for views of the Tuileries Garden while enjoying your profiteroles.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to experience these profiteroles is during the less crowded hours between 2:30 PM and 4:00 PM when the lunch rush has subsided. For the freshest experience, time your visit to coincide with the second daily batch of choux pastry, which typically emerges from the ovens around 2:00 PM. Photography enthusiasts should note that the natural light near the windows provides the best conditions for capturing the dessert's presentation.

Practical Advice:

Make reservations at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (June-August and December). While the price point is higher than standard patisseries, the experience includes the ambiance of a Michelin-starred establishment and impeccable service. Consider pairing the profiteroles with one of their signature teas for the complete experience, and allow at least 45 minutes to fully appreciate the presentation and service.

Café Pouchkine – French-Russian Fusion Profiteroles

french russian dessert delicacy

Nestled in the heart of Paris's 9th arrondissement, Café Pouchkine offers a unique interpretation of profiteroles that marries classic French pastry techniques with Russian culinary traditions. The café's reputation for exquisite French-Russian fusion desserts has made it a standout destination for both locals and tourists seeking something beyond the traditional Parisian profiterole.

The signature profiteroles at Café Pouchkine feature delicate choux pastry filled with innovative combinations like vanilla-infused crème diplomat and topped with traditional Russian chocolate sauce made with premium Guanaja chocolate. This cultural fusion creates an unforgettable dessert experience that honors both French precision and Russian grandeur.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €12-18 per serving
  • Reservation: Recommended for weekend afternoons
  • Best Time to Visit: Tuesday-Thursday, 2-4 PM
  • Dietary Options: Regular and gluten-free versions available
  • Seating Capacity: 45 indoor, 12 outdoor
  • Wait Times: 15-45 minutes during peak hours
  • Photography: Allowed, best natural lighting 2-4 PM

The Russian Influence

The café's profiteroles stand out for their distinctive use of buckwheat honey in the chocolate sauce, a nod to Russian culinary traditions. The dessert is served on ornate Императорский Фарфоровый Завод (Imperial Porcelain Factory) plates, adding to the authentic Russian experience. Located at 64 Boulevard Haussmann, the café operates daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, with the pastry counter often selling out of specialty items by late afternoon.

Pro Tips

The ideal time to experience Café Pouchkine's profiteroles is during their afternoon tea service between 3-5 PM when fresh batches emerge from the kitchen. Request a table in the winter garden area, where natural light enhances both the dining experience and food photography. Consider ordering their special "Dégustation Pouchkine" which includes a sampling of three different profiterole variations paired with their house-blended Russian tea.

Practical Advice

Make advance reservations during tourist season (June-August) and major holidays. The café offers takeaway options, but the profiteroles are best enjoyed on-site while fresh and properly plated. For solo diners, the bar seating offers an excellent view of the pastry chefs at work and often includes impromptu tastings of new creations. Keep in mind that the café observes traditional French closing days during August, so check their website for specific dates.

Des Gâteaux Et Du Pain – Contemporary Artisanal Excellence

artisanal cake craftsmanship excellence

Nestled in Paris's 15th arrondissement, Des Gâteaux Et Du Pain represents the pinnacle of contemporary French pastry artistry under the masterful direction of Claire Damon. This elegant boutique patisserie has earned its reputation as one of Paris's premier destinations for profiteroles, combining traditional techniques with modern refinements that elevate these classic cream puffs to new heights.

The establishment's approach to profiteroles exemplifies their commitment to perfection – featuring delicate choux pastry shells that achieve the finest balance between crisp exterior and tender interior, filled with silky vanilla bean crème pâtissière and topped with a signature dark chocolate sauce that's heated to the perfect temperature before serving.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €6-8 per individual profiterole serving
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00, Sunday 9:00-13:00
  • Reservation: Not required, but expect queues during peak hours (2-4 PM)
  • Dietary Notes: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs; no vegan alternatives
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for freshest selection
  • Payment: Credit cards accepted, contactless available

The Signature Experience:

Des Gâteaux Et Du Pain's profiteroles stand out for their precise execution and premium ingredients. The choux pastry is made fresh throughout the day, ensuring excellent texture. The vanilla cream filling uses Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans, while the chocolate sauce features a custom blend of African and South American cacao. Located at 63 Boulevard Pasteur, the shop's pristine interior design reflects the precision of their pastries. Insider tip: Ask for the chocolate sauce on the side – it's served warm and allows you to control the perfect amount for each bite.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate profiterole experience, visit between 10:30-11:30 AM when fresh batches emerge from the kitchen. Consider combining your visit with a walk through the nearby Luxembourg Gardens for a quintessential Parisian afternoon. During warmer months, request your profiteroles "à emporter" (to go) and enjoy them in the garden.

Practical Advice:

While Des Gâteaux Et Du Pain offers various serving sizes, opt for the individual portion on your first visit to fully appreciate the balance of textures and temperatures. Profiteroles are best enjoyed immediately, but if taking them to go, request the chocolate sauce in a separate container and ask for specific reheating instructions. Photography is allowed inside the shop, but be respectful of other customers and the elegant atmosphere.

La Maison Du Chocolat – Chocolate-Forward Perfection

chocolate indulgence at its finest

La Maison Du Chocolat stands as a beacon of excellence in Paris's rich pastry landscape, particularly renowned for their exceptional chocolate-centric profiteroles. Founded by Robert Linxe in 1977, this prestigious establishment has elevated the humble profiterole into an art form, incorporating their signature chocolate expertise into every aspect of this classic French dessert.

Their profiteroles distinguish themselves through the use of single-origin chocolate from prestigious cacao-growing regions, creating a depth of flavor that transforms the traditional vanilla-focused dessert into a chocolate lover's dream. The choux pastry shells are crafted to precise specifications, achieving the perfect balance between crisp exterior and tender interior, while the chocolate sauce is prepared fresh throughout the day.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €8-12 per individual portion
  • Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Thursday, 2-4 PM (lowest crowds)
  • Reservation Requirements: None for café seating
  • Dietary Notes: Contains gluten, eggs, dairy
  • Storage Duration: Best consumed within 2 hours
  • Available Variations: Dark, milk, or white chocolate options

The signature chocolate profiteroles feature perfectly proportioned choux puffs filled with Madagascar vanilla cream and topped with a proprietary blend of warm chocolate sauce. Located at 225 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in the 8th arrondissement, the flagship store operates Monday through Saturday, 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM. The lesser-known insider secret is their seasonal special editions, which aren't listed on the regular menu but incorporate unique chocolate varieties based on the cacao harvest calendar.

Pro Tips:

The best experience comes from timing your visit when the profiteroles are freshly prepared, typically at 11 AM and 3 PM daily. Request your chocolate sauce served separately to maintain the pastry's texture, and consider pairing with their signature hot chocolate for an elevated chocolate experience. During summer months, opt for the special chilled version, featuring chocolate-infused cream and room-temperature sauce.

Practical Advice:

Photography is permitted inside the store but without flash. For takeaway orders, the staff provides specific instructions for transportation and consumption timing. The establishment accepts major credit cards and contactless payments, but maintaining a small amount of cash is advisable for the occasional system outage. During peak tourist season (July-August), arriving before 11 AM ensures both product availability and seating in the café area.

Le Choux D'enfer – Street Food Meets Gourmet

gourmet street food experience

Le Choux D'enfer represents a delightful fusion of traditional French pastry craftsmanship and modern street food convenience. Located in the vibrant Marais district, this innovative establishment has revolutionized how Parisians enjoy their beloved profiteroles, offering these delicate pastries in a grab-and-go format without compromising on quality or taste.

What sets Le Choux D'enfer apart is their contemporary approach to the classic profiterole. While maintaining the essential elements of perfectly baked choux pastry and rich crème pâtissière, they've introduced creative flavor combinations and a convenient serving style that appeals to both locals and tourists seeking an authentic yet modern Parisian sweet experience.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €3.50-€6 per piece, €18-€25 for boxes of 6
  • Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:00-19:00
  • No reservations needed – street food concept
  • Vegan options available (call ahead)
  • Peak times: 14:00-17:00
  • Cards accepted, contactless payment preferred
  • Limited seating available (standing bar only)

The signature offering at Le Choux D'enfer is their "Collection Classique" featuring traditional chocolate, vanilla, and caramel profiteroles. Each piece is made fresh daily, with the choux pastry baked in small batches throughout the day to guarantee prime crispness. The shop's location at 24 Rue de Rivoli provides easy access for tourists exploring the historic Marais district. Insider tip: Visit between 11:00-12:00 to catch the morning batch fresh from the oven.

Their innovative "Collection Moderne" showcases unexpected flavor combinations like matcha-yuzu, passion fruit-coconut, and salted butter caramel-praline. These contemporary interpretations have earned the shop numerous local awards and a dedicated following among Paris's young foodie crowd. Special orders for larger quantities should be placed 48 hours in advance.

Pro Tips:

The best experience at Le Choux D'enfer comes from timing your visit strategically. Weekday mornings offer the most relaxed atmosphere and fullest selection. For photography enthusiasts, the shop's exterior features a charming neon sign that creates perfect Instagram moments during the early evening hours. Consider purchasing a mixed box to sample both traditional and modern flavors – the staff can provide expert pairing recommendations based on your preferences.

Practical Advice:

While exploring Le Choux D'enfer, remember that these profiteroles are best enjoyed within 4-6 hours of purchase to maintain their ideal texture. The shop provides specialized carrying boxes for tourists planning to transport their treats, but these should be kept upright to prevent the filling from shifting. During summer months, request an ice pack if you plan to walk more than 15 minutes before consuming your purchases.