Paris Bakery Must-Trys

Try the classics first!

Visiting Paris for the first time? Then you definitely have to try the classic croissant and iconic baguette!

How to order a real French baguette

You shouldn’t simply ask for a baguette — instead, order a “baguette tradition”. Why? Because you’ll get the traditional baguette that Parisians eat every day — crustier, with lighter, airy dough.

‍

Pastries VS Viennoiseries

French people separate their pastries in two categories:

• Viennoiseries : pastries made with puff pastry, typically eaten at breakfast time.
• Pastries : cakes, tarts, choux… reserved for sweet treats and special occasions.

‍

Delicious Viennoiseries you will definitely love

The iconic Pain au chocolat : Almost as famous as the croissant, this pastry is made from the same buttery, flaky puff pastry dough, with two bars of rich dark chocolate hidden inside.

‍‍

The comforting Chausson aux Pommes : A puff pastry filled with apple compote. You could say it’s a French take on apple pie. Soft inside, yet crispy on the outside.

‍

The nostalgic Pain aux Raisins : A spiral-shaped pastry with custard cream (crème pâtissière) and raisins. It’s sometimes called escargot (snail in French), as its shape resembles a snail shell.

‍

The rich Kouign-Amann : A specialty from Brittany, on the West coast of France. It’s made with laminated dough, sugar, and butter. Caramelized and crisp on the outside, and deliciously tender inside.

‍

The indulgent Pain suisse or Torsade : Puff pastry filled with pastry cream and chocolate chips. The “Pain suisse” is shaped like a rectangle, whereas  the “Torsade” is twisted around itself like a braid.

‍

The light and airy Chouquettes : Small, airy puffs made from choux pastry, sprinkled generously with crunchy pearl sugar. They’re light and slightly sweet, and often sold by the bag. The perfect snack to share (or enjoy as a solo treat!)

‍

Pastries

Not breakfast foods, but still iconic! Here are the ones you must try

‍

The elegant éclair : Made with a long choux and filled with flavored pastry cream. The most classic flavors are chocolate, café or caramel but you can also find vanilla, strawberry or other flavors in some bakeries.

‍

The sophisticated Paris-Brest : A round choux pastry filled with praline cream. This pastry was created in 1910 to honor a cycling race from Paris to the city of Brest.

‍

The classic flan : A thick slice of creamy vanilla custard set on a buttery pastry crust, baked until golden on top. It’s a classic you will like for sure.

‍

The chic Canelé : Originating from Bordeaux, a city in the South of France. Those are small caramelized pastries with a custardy center, flavored with vanilla and rum.

‍

Pro tip: Each boulangerie has their signature items — don’t be afraid to ask the shopkeeper what she recommends!

‍

‍

How to Order

Now that you know what to order, let me teach you the proper way to order in a bakery. And don’t worry, you don’t need to speak French!

The most important thing is to start with a “Bonjour” when you walk in. It’s a small detail, but it shows respect and will always be appreciated.

After that, you can order in English and point to what you’d like. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, you can also ask for more information on any specific item. Most bakeries in Paris are used to travelers and will understand you just fine, nothing like Emily in Paris 😉

When you’re finished, just add a “Merci, au revoir” as you leave. With just a handful of words, you’ll fit right in and be able to order stress-free.

‍

What is a “Formule” ?

In France, a formule is essentially a combo meal deal, with a fixed price. You will see it most often in restaurants, cafés, and bakeries. Instead of ordering à la carte (choosing single items), you choose a formule where several items are bundled together at a fixed price. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff if you have any questions about what is included in the deal.

Pro tip: At lunch time, a standard formule at a boulangerie might include a sandwich + drink + dessert for a set price.  Perfect if you’re looking for a quick, affordable meal!

‍

Bon Appétit!

So now you know your way around a boulangerie! Whether it’s starting your morning with a warm croissant, sharing a Paris-Brest with a loved one in the afternoon, or grabbing a baguette for a picnic by the Seine, enjoying these treasures is one of the key ways to experience France.