6 Historic Chocolate Shops in Paris Since the 1800s

I'll share Paris's most enchanting historic chocolate shops that have delighted locals and visitors since the 1800s! The journey begins with À La Mère De Famille (1761), followed by the royal favorite Debauve & Gallais (1800), innovative Chocolat Menier (1816), artistic Maison Georges Larnicol (1855), elegant Boissier (1872), and masterful Maison Foucher (1886). Each shop tells a unique story through its traditional recipes, architectural beauty, and centuries-old craftsmanship. Let's explore these sweet havens of French confectionery excellence!

À La Mère De Famille (Est. 1761)

À La Mère de Famille stands as Paris's oldest chocolate shop, a living reflection of French confectionery excellence since Louis XV's reign. This historic establishment, founded in 1761, has maintained its original storefront and interior design, creating an authentic 18th-century shopping experience that transports visitors back in time while serving some of the finest chocolates in France.

The shop's enduring legacy is matched only by its commitment to quality and tradition, with recipes passed down through generations of master chocolatiers. From its iconic green façade to the antique wooden counters and vintage advertising posters, every detail of À La Mère de Famille contributes to its status as both a cultural landmark and a premier destination for chocolate enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM
• Price Range: €5-€50 for chocolate boxes, €2-€8 for individual pieces
• Payment Methods: Cash, major credit cards
• Peak Times: Weekends and holidays, especially during chocolate seasons (Christmas, Easter)
• Languages: French, English
• Shipping: International shipping available for non-perishable items
• Dietary Options: Dark chocolate varieties for vegans, some sugar-free options

The Original Location

Located at 35 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre in the 9th arrondissement, the flagship store retains its original mosaic floor tiles, carved wooden cabinets, and gilded mirrors. The shop's master chocolatiers create everything on-site in the workshop below, producing pralines, ganaches, and seasonal specialties using traditional methods. Insider tip: Visit during mid-morning on weekdays to watch the artisans at work through the workshop's viewing window.

Pro Tips:

The best time to experience À La Mère de Famille is during the early morning hours (9:30-11:00 AM) when the chocolates are freshest and the crowds are minimal. For the fullest sensory experience, time your visit to coincide with the chocolate-making sessions, typically scheduled between 10:00 AM and noon. Ask the staff about their daily fresh-made specialties, which often sell out by afternoon.

Practical Advice:

During summer months, consider bringing an insulated bag for chocolate purchases, as Parisian temperatures can affect the delicate confections. The shop offers temperature-controlled packaging for an additional fee, and it's advisable to consume fresh chocolates within 2-3 weeks of purchase. For the best experience, book a tasting session in advance through their website, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

Debauve & Gallais (Est. 1800)

The shop's rich heritage combines with its commitment to exceptional quality, maintaining traditional recipes while incorporating modern chocolate-making techniques. The historic boutique, designed by the architect who renovated Versailles, features original Empire-style wooden cabinets and showcases chocolates presented like precious jewels, making it as much a museum of chocolate history as it is a luxury confectionery.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Price Range: €25-200 per box
• Payment: Major credit cards accepted, cash preferred
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for personalized service
• Language: Staff speaks English and French
• Shipping: International shipping available, temperature-controlled packaging
• Special Orders: Available with 48-hour advance notice

The centerpiece of Debauve & Gallais's offering is their signature Pistoles, coin-shaped chocolates originally created for Marie Antoinette. These historical confections come in various percentages of cacao, from mild 30% to intense 99%, and are still made using the original 1800s recipe. The boutique's ornate interior, featuring crystal chandeliers and marble countertops, creates an atmosphere that transports visitors to the age of French monarchy.

Pro Tips:

To fully appreciate the Debauve & Gallais experience, visit during mid-morning on weekdays when the experienced staff can provide detailed explanations of chocolate histories and proper tasting techniques. Request a tasting of their historical pieces, particularly the Pistoles collection, which offers a unique glimpse into French chocolate heritage. Many visitors don't realize that the shop offers complimentary tastings of selected pieces when making a purchase.

Practical Advice:

During summer months, consider bringing an insulated bag for chocolate purchases, as Parisian temperatures can affect these delicate confections. The shop offers temperature-controlled packaging for an additional fee, which is recommended for larger purchases or if you're not returning directly to your accommodation. Make sure to ask about their seasonal collections, which often feature limited-edition pieces that aren't displayed in the main showcase.

Chocolat Menier (Est. 1816)

Founded in 1816 as a pharmaceutical powder manufacturer, Chocolat Menier evolved to become one of France's most iconic chocolate brands, revolutionizing both chocolate production and marketing in Europe. The company's distinctive yellow packaging and innovative advertising campaigns made it a household name, while its industrial facility in Noisiel became a landmark of 19th-century architectural innovation.

Today, while the original Menier chocolate production has been absorbed into other companies, the legacy of this pioneering brand lives on through its historic buildings, cultural impact, and influence on modern chocolate making. The former factory site, now a UNESCO World Heritage candidate, stands as a hallmark to the company's role in transforming chocolate from a luxury item into an accessible everyday pleasure.

Quick Facts:

• Original factory location: Noisiel, France (east of Paris)
• Factory visiting hours: Guided tours available Wednesday-Sunday, 10 AM-5 PM
• Ticket prices: €12 adults, €8 children (under 12)
• Photography: Allowed in designated areas
• Historical products: Available in select Parisian specialty shops
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible in main areas
• Language options: Tours in French and English

The Menier Legacy

The original Menier chocolate factory in Noisiel represents a remarkable example of industrial architecture, featuring distinctive iron, brick, and glass construction. The site's centerpiece, the Moulin Saulnier (built 1872), was one of the first buildings to expose its metal framework as an architectural element. Visitors can explore the restored buildings, which house exhibitions detailing the company's history, manufacturing processes, and cultural impact. Insider tip: Request to see the original mechanical chocolate-making equipment demonstrations, available during special tours.

Pro Tips

Visit during shoulder season (March-May or September-November) for smaller tour groups and better photography opportunities. The late afternoon light creates stunning effects on the building's metalwork and provides the best conditions for architectural photography. Consider combining your visit with a stop at the nearby Champs-sur-Marne castle for a full day of historical exploration.

Practical Advice

Advance booking is essential for factory tours, especially during peak summer months. While the original Menier products are no longer manufactured, several Parisian chocolate shops offer historical recreations of classic Menier recipes. The nearest RER station is Noisiel (Line A), and free parking is available on site. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the full tour involves considerable standing and walking on historic surfaces.

Maison Georges Larnicol (Est. 1855)

Nestled in the heart of Paris's Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, Maison Georges Larnicol stands as a reflection of French chocolate-making excellence since 1855. This celebrated chocolaterie combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative artistry, earning its place among Paris's most prestigious chocolate establishments and the coveted title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF).

The shop's distinctive blue façade and gleaming window displays draw visitors into a world where chocolate transcends mere confectionery to become edible art. Master chocolatier Georges Larnicol has revolutionized the presentation of traditional French chocolate while maintaining the establishment's historic recipes and techniques that have delighted Parisians for over 165 years.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00, Sunday 11:00-18:00
• Price Range: €5-€50 for individual items, gift boxes from €25-€200
• Payment Methods: Major credit cards, cash, contactless payments
• Peak Hours: 14:00-17:00 (weekends especially busy)
• Special Dietary Options: Dark chocolate varieties suitable for vegans
• Shipping: International shipping available for non-perishable items
• Languages: Staff speaks French and English

Signature Creations:

The shop's renowned Kouignettes, a miniature version of the traditional Breton Kouign-amann, represent Larnicol's mastery of both chocolate and pastry. These buttery, caramelized treats come in various flavors, including their signature chocolate variation. The distinctive display features rotating towers of these delicacies, drawing crowds throughout the day.

Location and Experience:

Located at 132 Boulevard Saint-Germain, the shop offers an immersive chocolate experience. Visitors can watch artisans work through the glass-walled workshop, offering a glimpse into the meticulous chocolate-making process. The store's interior features original 19th-century wooden fixtures and mirrors, creating an authentic historic ambiance.

Insider Tip: The shop's chocolate sculptures, ranging from architectural landmarks to seasonal designs, are created on-site. Visit early morning to see craftsmen assembling these remarkable pieces before they're displayed.

Pro Tips:

The best time to visit is during mid-morning on weekdays when fresh batches of chocolates are being arranged, and the shop is less crowded. For photography enthusiasts, the morning light through the front windows creates stunning opportunities to capture the chocolate displays and historic interior details. Consider visiting during seasonal changes when the window displays are updated with elaborate chocolate sculptures.

Practical Advice:

During summer months, the shop provides special packaging with cooling elements for chocolate purchases. For ideal tasting experiences, avoid visiting during peak afternoon hours when the shop can become warm from foot traffic. Consider making larger purchases during cooler months (October-April) when chocolate is less likely to be affected by temperature. The shop offers temperature-controlled bags for purchase, essential for protecting delicate chocolates while exploring Paris.

Boissier Chocolates (Est. 1872)

Founded in 1872 by Julien Boissier, Maison Boissier stands as one of Paris's most prestigious chocolate houses, representing nearly 150 years of French confectionery excellence. Located in the elegant 16th arrondissement, this historic chocolatier has maintained its reputation for creating exquisite chocolates and confections using traditional methods while adapting to contemporary tastes.

The shop is particularly renowned for its signature glazed chestnuts, chocolate-covered almonds, and uniquely flavored bonbons that have delighted Parisians and visitors alike for generations. Boissier's commitment to quality and artistic presentation is evident in their meticulously crafted chocolates and their beautifully designed packaging, which has become nearly as famous as the confections themselves.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00
• Price Range: €15-€120 per box
• Location: 7 Boulevard des Capucines, 75002 Paris
• Payment Methods: Major credit cards, cash
• Seasonal Specialties: Christmas collections (October-December)
• Gift Packaging: Complimentary elegant gift wrapping
• Languages: Staff speaks French and English
• Shipping: International shipping available for non-perishable items

Signature Collections:

The heart of Boissier's appeal lies in their signature collections, particularly their "Marrons Glacés" (glazed chestnuts), which undergo a meticulous 15-day preparation process. These delicacies are available year-round but are especially popular during the holiday season. Insider tip: Visit during mid-morning on weekdays to watch the artisans hand-dipping chocolates through the workshop's viewing window.

Historical Ambiance:

The shop's interior maintains its Belle Époque charm with original wooden cabinets, ornate mirrors, and marble countertops. The store's antique displays showcase chocolates like precious jewels, creating an atmosphere that transports visitors to the elegance of 19th-century Paris. Unique feature: Look for the hidden art nouveau details in the ceiling moldings, which were designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel.

Pro Tips:

For the best experience, visit during the less crowded morning hours, particularly on weekdays. Consider joining one of their monthly chocolate-tasting workshops (advance reservation required), where you can learn about chocolate-making techniques and the history of the house. The best photos of the shop's famous façade can be taken in the early morning light before the crowds arrive.

Practical Advice:

During summer months, consider requesting thermal packaging for chocolate purchases, as Paris temperatures can affect these delicate confections. The shop offers a temperature-controlled waiting area for customers during peak summer days, and it's advisable to bring purchases directly to your accommodation rather than carrying them around the city. For special occasions, custom orders should be placed at least 48 hours in advance, and during holiday seasons, pre-ordering is essential to secure specific items.

Foucher Chocolate House (Est. 1886)

Founded in 1886, Maison Foucher stands as one of Paris's most revered chocolate institutions, maintaining its original location in the elegant 16th arrondissement. This family-owned chocolaterie has preserved traditional chocolate-making methods while adapting to contemporary tastes, creating an extraordinary balance between heritage and innovation.

The storied establishment continues to craft chocolates using many of the same techniques and recipes developed by its founder, Jules Foucher, whose chocolate-making principles emphasized pure ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. Today, visitors can experience both classic Parisian chocolate craftsmanship and modern interpretations of beloved recipes in an atmosphere that reflects the elegance of Belle Époque Paris.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00
• Price Range: €5-€50 for boxed chocolates
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning on weekdays
• Payment Methods: Cash, major credit cards
• Languages: French, basic English
• Special Orders: Available with 48-hour notice
• Seasonal Specialties: Christmas, Easter, Valentine's Day
• Photography: Permitted in shop, not in production area

The Foucher Experience

Located at 134 avenue Victor Hugo, Foucher's flagship store features original Belle Époque architectural elements, including carved wooden displays and antique glass cases. The shop specializes in pralines, ganaches, and their signature "Palets d'Or" – thin discs of dark chocolate dusted with edible gold. Their chocolate-making workshop, visible through a glass partition, offers glimpses of artisans at work during select hours.

Signature Collections

The house's renowned collections include the "Heritage Line," featuring recipes unchanged since 1886, and the "Modern Collection," which incorporates contemporary flavor combinations. Most notable is their "Victor Hugo" assortment, named after their prestigious address, featuring dark chocolate ganaches infused with rare single-origin cocoas. Insider tip: Ask about the "daily special" – an experimental flavor available in limited quantities.

Pro Tips

Visit during mid-week mornings to catch chocolate-making demonstrations and receive personalized attention from staff. For the freshest selection, time your visit to coincide with new batch production on Tuesdays and Thursdays. During summer months, request special packaging with cooling elements to protect purchases from heat, and consider their humidity-controlled shipping options for longer-distance transport.

Practical Advice

While Foucher accepts walk-ins, calling ahead for large orders or special requests is recommended. For the full experience, book a tasting session (available in French only) at least two weeks in advance. The shop can be reached via Metro line 2 (Victor Hugo station), and visitors should note that the area becomes particularly busy during school dismissal times due to nearby educational institutions.