Paris, the City of Lights, is also a city of delicious treats. For centuries, Parisian artisans have been crafting sweets that tantalize taste buds and make your heart sing. But if you’re looking for an authentic Parisian experience, you need to venture beyond the modern bakeries and discover the historic confectioneries that have been delighting Parisians for generations.
This article will guide you through some of Paris’s oldest and most charming confectioneries, each with a story to tell and a tradition to uphold. Let’s embark on a sweet journey through time, from the oldest chocolate factory in Paris to a historic pastry shop that’s been serving up delicious treats since the 18th century.
A Legacy of Chocolate: La Mère de Famille
Imagine a charming storefront with a green and gold facade, inviting you to step inside and indulge in sweet temptations. This is La Mère de Famille, a Parisian landmark that has been delighting customers since 1761.
Originally a simple grocery store, it was transformed into a confectionery shop in 1856 with the rise of sugar in Paris. The original facade still stands today, a testament to the history of this iconic shop.
La Mère de Famille is one of the few candy shops in Paris that’s also an official historical monument. The current owners, the Dolfi family, are dedicated to preserving the legacy of this oldest chocolate factory in Paris. Be sure to sample the petit beurre, a house tradition, or indulge in the chocolate pralines and chewy nougat.
A Pastry Chef’s Legacy: Stohrer
Rue Montorgueil, a pedestrian street in the 2nd arrondissement, is known for its eclectic atmosphere and bustling crowds on weekends. But amidst the hubbub, you’ll find Stohrer, a bakery that has been delighting Parisians since 1730.
The founder, Nicolas Stohrer, was one of Paris’s most renowned pastry chefs, brought to the city by the daughter of King Louis XV who shared her love of sweets.
Stohrer’s first and only pastry shop, opened in 1730, still stands proudly on rue Montorgueil. Though no longer run by the original family, it remains a family business, now in the hands of the Dolfi family (the same family behind La Mère de Famille). They are known as royalty in the world of French confectionery.
Step inside and you’ll be transported back in time. The cakes are still handmade from scratch, and lines snake out the door every day of the week. Don’t miss the Baba au Rhum, a signature creation by Stohrer himself.
A Parisian Oasis: Pavillon de la Reine
Place des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris, is a haven of historical charm. Surrounded by retail shops, it’s a popular spot for both tourists and Parisians seeking a peaceful escape.
Nestled within this beautiful square is Pavillon de la Reine, a historical residence and hotel. The architecture is a classic example of early 17th-century Paris, and the square boasts more pre-revolutionary buildings than any other street in the city.
The exterior is truly breathtaking, but as a hotel guest, you’ll enjoy access to the sumptuous private garden courtyard. Sip on a Parisian cocktail before indulging in a seasonal menu at Anne, the hotel’s restaurant, led by Chef Mathieu Pacaud.
For an unforgettable experience, book the Suite de la Reine. With a handcrafted chandelier, a 17th-century fireplace, and original Versailles parquet flooring, it’s a luxurious retreat that’s hard to leave, even in Paris.
Literary Delights: Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain
Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain, a newly renovated hotel in the 7th arrondissement, is a literary haven for those who appreciate the written word.
This hotel, dating back to 1642, has hosted famous authors throughout its history, and you can practically feel their presence in the rooms where they ate, slept, and relaxed.
James Joyce may have imagined his masterpiece, Dubliners, here, and finished the final pages of Ulysses. T. S. Eliot wrote some of his finest poems in this seeming mythical place.
As a tribute to its literary past, the hotel has been furnished with tasteful designer pieces. Don’t miss the old staircase, a testament to the hotel’s history.
A Parisian Legacy: Guerlain
For those who appreciate the art of fragrance, a visit to Guerlain is a must. Founded in 1828, this international brand has stores all over the world, but its original Maison on Rue de Paix is where perfume lovers gather in Paris.
The Guerlain Maison was built by Charles Mewes, the same architect behind the Paris Ritz. This Art Nouveau structure, now a historical monument, is protected by French preservation laws.
In 2013, the Maison underwent a renovation to celebrate its 100th anniversary, but the carved stone and sculpted metal – hallmarks of the Belle Epoque style – remain intact.
Indulge in a made-to-measure treatment at the Institut Guerlain, the Maison’s exclusive beauty spa.
A Parisian Icon: Galerie Lafayette
It’s hard to resist the allure of shopping in Paris. Even if you’re trying to curb your shopaholic tendencies, a visit to Galeries Lafayette is a must.
This department store, dating back to 1893, has always been a place for shopping and spending money. The original owners dreamed of creating a “luxury bazaar” in the 19th century, and they succeeded.
The golden light and majestic dome create a breathtaking Art Nouveau hall. The basement has recently been transformed into a wellness oasis, offering signature massages for those seeking rest and relaxation.
Fun fact: Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is the most visited monument in Paris, second only to the Eiffel Tower.
Paris’s Liberated Heart: Le Scribe
Just a short walk from Galeries Lafayette is Le Scribe, a luxury Sofitel hotel and a true Parisian icon.
Once home to the prestigious Jockey Club, where influential figures gathered to discuss business and enjoy cocktails, the building is known for its historic significance.
In 1940, Le Scribe became the headquarters for Nazi propagandists, until the Allies liberated Paris. Thousands of journalists gathered on the hotel’s rooftop to report the news, making Le Scribe the epicenter of the city’s liberation.
This historic hotel, a testament to Paris’s resilience, is a place where history and luxury come together.
