The Ultimate Guide to the Best Pastries in Paris
Living in Paris, the pastry capital of the world, provides a unique perspective on what distinguishes a mediocre pastry from a masterful one. This guide is curated to reflect the absolute best pastries that the city has to offer, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
It’s important to note that everyone’s palate is different; thus, any list claiming to highlight the best pastries in Paris may lead to some debate. We’ve carefully chosen iconic French pastries that are permanent menu items in several esteemed patisseries throughout France.
1. Madeleines from Ritz Paris Le Comptoir
Before visiting the Ritz Paris Le Comptoir, madeleines felt uninspiring. However, the modernized version by pastry chef François Perret is a game-changer. These delightful sponge cakes are glazed with flavors like lemon, raspberry, caramel, and chocolate, and feature impressive fruit or chocolate centers. They are moist, fragrant, and visually stunning—a must-try while in the city.
Cost: €5 each
2. Lemon Tarts from Stohrer
If you’re a fan of zesty lemon tarts, Stohrer’s offering is exceptional. Known as the birthplace of the baba rhum, this historic pastry shop presents a lemon tart that perfectly balances tartness with sweetness. Its shortbread crust and lemon confit ensure a refreshing treat without overwhelming acidity.
Cost: €6.10
3. Macarons from Pierre Hermé
While many patisseries offer beautiful macarons, none compare to Pierre Hermé’s signature rose, litchi, and raspberry Ispahan. The intricate blending of fruity flavors with floral notes creates a sophisticated taste experience that lingers in the memory long after indulging. This delightful treat represents the quintessential experience of Parisian patisserie.
Cost: €2.80
4. Saint-Honoré from Philippe Conticini
The Saint-Honoré is a classic Parisian dessert invented in the 19th century. The version by acclaimed chef Philippe Conticini is superb, featuring a blend of flavors and textures that makes each bite memorable. With its vanilla cream, soft pastry, and a touch of salted caramel, this elegantly presented dessert is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Cost: €8.50
5. Chocolate Éclairs from La Maison du Chocolat
To sample an exceptional chocolate éclair, La Maison du Chocolat is the ideal destination. Crafted with rich dark chocolate and light, airy choux pastry, these éclairs offer a delightful balance of texture and flavor. Although they may be pricier than most at €7, the quality and craftsmanship justify the cost.
Cost: €7
6. The Equinox from La Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac
Cyril Lignac, though less known outside France, is a celebrated pastry chef whose Equinox is a stunning creation. This multi-layered dessert combines bourbon vanilla cream, caramel, and Speculoos praline for a surprising and satisfying treat. Its impeccable presentation and delightful flavors make it a fashionable choice among the top pastries in the city.
Cost: €7
