With some of the world’s top pastry chefs, there is no shortage of delicious desserts in the city of love

The French have a passion for pastries, cakes, and chocolates and it is no surprise that they have created many of the world’s most sensational sweets. With specialties ranging from unbelievably flaky croissants to exceptional cheeses and decadent desserts, Paris is arguably the best culinary destination in Europe.

Parisian desserts are one of the best ways to experience local food culture, but the number of options available can be overwhelming. In this article, I’ll share with you my picks for the top 5 French desserts so you can sample the best of Parisian sweets.

Bon appétit!

DESSERTS TO TRY IN PARIS

1) Classic French Macarons at Pierre Hermé

The French macaron is perhaps the most well-known dessert on this list. These delicate French sandwich cookies are incredibly light and airy.

Pierre Hermé macarons are my favorite. The flavor selection is stunning. They have some very unique combinations with many non-traditional ingredients such as tea, rose, and even olive oil!

Must try: Ispahan – a combination of raspberry, rose, and lychee. Floral and fruity.

2) Brioche Feuilletée Tigrée at Thierry Marx – La Boulangerie

When a Michelin Star chef opens its own bakery, it’s obviously going to be incredible. This flaky, buttery treat has a surprise filling of Chocolate Praliné inside.

Check out these videos of this amazing culinary creation by Michelin star chef Thierry Marx:

Video credit: @parischezsharon

3) Absolutely anything by Philippe Conticini

Philippe Conticini is one of those pastry chefs who have achieved nearly everything. In his pastry shop, he revisits the most important classics of French pastry, such as the Paris Brest. Taste is the main component used in his creations, and pleasure is the sought-after result.

It was an absolute pleasure to meet Pastry Chef Philippe Conticini and attend his masterclass on my trip to Paris. 

 

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4) Citrus Tart at Des Gâteaux et du Pain

Prix d’Excellence Relais Desserts are a bit like the Oscars of the pastry. Pastry Chef Claire Damon from Des Gâteaux et du Pain is the only woman who won the prestigious title of the Best In-store Pastry Chef in 2018.

Her bakery Des Gâteaux et du Pain (Cakes & Bread) in Paris is the place to be for lovers of good food. Each ingredient in her pastry is selected respecting the seasons and the producers. Here, fruits are thoroughly selected. If they’re not seasonal or not ripe enough, Chef Claire Damon waits the right time, when fruits are full of flavors, to use them.

Must try: Citrus Tart – sharp, tangy, and creamy

5) Mont Blanc at Mori Yoshida

Japanese pastry chef Morihide Yoshida serves simple, elegant desserts perfectly assembled and displayed in-store. What’s interesting here is that Chef Mori is not leveraging Japan in his desserts but using his own identity in creating his world-class desserts.

My favorite dessert here was his rendition of Mont Blanc. It consists of phyllo pastry, almond cream, chantilly cream, chestnut confit, and chestnut cream. His version of Mont Blanc is lighter and less sweet compared to the original French version.

Must try: Mont Blanc – nutty, creamy, crispy. Baba Tropique – tropical and creamy.

Special mentions

• Desserts served at the Bar Vendôme Afternoon Tea in The Ritz, Paris

The Ritz Paris one of the best dining destinations in the world. The Bar Vendôme afternoon tea experience is curated by Pastry chef François Perret, who has been named as the World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2020.

The experience starts with little sandwiches, savory finger biscuits, hot beverages, and scones. It culminates with signature pastries created by Chef Perret himself.

• Desserts at Coco au Palais Garnier

Parisian pastry chef Kevin Lacote is the man behind the dessert menu at popular chic dining destination Coco au Palais Garnier.

With an extensive background in the Michelin star restaurant scene, he brings a fresh new look to his pastries. These pastries are prepared without any artificial coloring or flavoring.

Must try: Churros with vanilla cream and chocolate sauce

That’s all from me! Did I miss out on any of your favorite French pastries? Let me know your recommendations in the comments below!