When it comes to chocolate, Paris is a city that takes the cake – or should we say the ganache. With so many options available, from classic dark chocolate bars to rich and creamy truffles, it can be hard to decide where to indulge in this sweet treat.
To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best chocolate shops in Paris, along with what to order at each one. So whether you’re looking for a unique gift, a tasty souvenir, or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, these chocolate shops are sure to please.
What Is Chocolate And Where Does It Come From
Chocolate is a food made from cacao beans. Cacao beans are the seeds of the cacao tree, and they grow in pods on the tree. The cacao tree is native to Central America, and it was first domesticated by the Maya people.
Chocolate was originally consumed as a drink, and it was only later that it became the solid food we know today. The word “chocolate” comes from the Aztec word “xocolatl,” which means “bitter water.” Chocolate is made by processing cacao beans into cocoa powder, which is then used to make candy, chocolate bars, and other chocolate products.
Cocoa powder can also be used to make a hot beverage called chocolate milk. Chocolate is a popular food all over the world, and it comes in many different flavors. Milk chocolate is the most popular type of chocolate in the United States, while dark chocolate is more popular in Europe.
White chocolate is also available, but it does not contain any cocoa powder and is not considered true chocolate by some people. Chocolate can be enjoyed in many different ways, and it is often given as a gift.
The History Of Chocolate In Paris
Few things are as synonymous with Paris as chocolate. The city has a long history of producing and consuming sweet treats, and today it is home to some of the best chocolatiers in the world. The story of chocolate in Paris begins in the 17th century when French colonists brought cocoa beans back from their travels to South America.
At first, chocolate was a luxury reserved for the wealthy, but over time it became more accessible to the general public. By the 19th century, chocolate had become an important part of French culture, and numerous cafés and shops devoted to the delicious food sprang up around the city.
Today, Paris is still renowned for its chocolate, and visitors can find everything from simple bars of dark chocolate to elaborate confections filled with cream and nuts. Whether eaten on its own or used to make sumptuous desserts, chocolate remains one of the most beloved foods in the City of Light.
How To Choose The Right Chocolate Shop
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, one of the things you’ll definitely want to do is sample some of the best chocolate the city has to offer. But with so many chocolate shops to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few tips on how to choose the right chocolate shop for you:
First, think about what kind of chocolate you like. Do you prefer dark chocolate or milk chocolate? Is there a particular type of cocoa bean that you prefer? Once you know what you’re looking for, you can start narrowing down your choices.
Next, take a look at the selection of chocolates on offer. A good chocolate shop will have a wide range of different types of chocolate, so you can find something to suit your taste. They should also have a good selection of sizes and shapes, so you can get exactly what you want.
Finally, don’t forget to price compare. Chocolate is expensive, so you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. Fortunately, there are lots of website that can help you compare prices easily.
10 Best Chocolate Shops In Paris
When it comes to chocolate, Paris is a true paradise. There are countless shops and boutiques selling all sorts of delicious chocolate treats, from traditional bonbons to modern confections. Here are 10 of the best chocolate shops in Paris:
1. La Maison du Chocolat
La Maison du Chocolat is a renowned chocolate shop in Paris that was founded in 1977 by Robert Linxe. The shop is famous for its delicious chocolates, which are made using traditional French methods. La Maison du Chocolat also offers a wide variety of chocolate-based desserts, including cakes, cookies, and truffles.
In addition to its sweet treats, the shop also sells a variety of savory dishes, such as cheese and ham tartines. With its delectable treats and beautiful setting, La Maison du Chocolat is a must-visit destination for any chocolate lover.
Address: 225 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Jacques Genin
Paris is a city renowned for its food, and one of the most popular culinary destinations is Jacques Genin. This celebrated chocolate shop is located in the heart of the city, and it is famed for its delicious and inventive chocolates.
Genin sources the finest ingredients from around the world, and his chocolates are works of art, with beautiful flavor combinations that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you are looking for a unique gift or simply want to indulge your sweet tooth, Jacques Genin is the perfect place to go.
Address: 27 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
3. Lenôtre
If you’re a fan of chocolate, then you’ll definitely want to check out Lenôtre, one of the best chocolate shops in Paris. Lenôtre was founded in 1839 by Jean-Louis Jules Lenôtre, and since then, it has been known for its high-quality chocolates and confections.
The shop offers a wide variety of chocolatey treats, from truffles and bonbons to cakes and ice cream. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, you can even order a custom-made chocolate sculpture. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the delicious flavor of Lenôtre chocolate.
Address: 36 Av. de la Motte-Picquet, 75007 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
4. Mille et Une Nuits
Paris is well known for its incredible food scene, and one of the best places to satisfy your sweet tooth is Mille et Une Nuits. This charming chocolate shop is located in the heart of the city, and it offers a range of delicious confections that are sure to delight.
The chocolates are made from scratch using only the finest ingredients, and they come in a variety of tempting flavors. Whether you prefer dark chocolate or milk chocolate, there’s something for everyone at Mille et Une Nuits. In addition to its signature chocolates, the shop also sells a selection of cookies, cakes, and other pastries.
So whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a special treat, Mille et Une Nuits is the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth.
5. Jean-Paul Hévin
Jean-Paul Hévin is a world-renowned chocolatier who has won numerous awards for his delicious creations. His shop in Paris is a must-visit for any chocolate lover. The store offers a wide variety of chocolate flavors, from traditional dark chocolate to more unusual flavor combinations.
Many of the chocolates are also beautifully decorated, making them perfect gifts. In addition to selling chocolates, the store also offers classes where you can learn how to make your own chocolate creations.
Whether you’re looking to indulge your sweet tooth or create something special for someone else, Jean-Paul Hévin is the place to go.
Address: côté cour, 231 Rue St Honoré, 75001 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
6. À la Mère de Famille
À la Mère de Famille is a Parisian institution when it comes to chocolate. The shop, which has been around since 1761, is known for its traditional approach to chocolate-making. All of the chocolates are made by hand using only the finest ingredients.
The result is a truly unique product that is loved by locals and tourists alike. À la Mère de Famille also offers a wide range of other sweet treats, including macarons, caramels, and nougat. In addition to its delicious products, the shop is also renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau décor.
From the moment you step through the door, you feel like you have been transported back in time. Whether you are looking for a special gift or simply want to treat yourself, À la Mère de Famille is the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth.
Address: 35 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
7. Angels Food Factory
If you’re a chocolate lover, then you’ll definitely want to check out Angels Food Factory when you’re in Paris. This delicious chocolate shop offers a wide variety of both sweet and savory treats, all made with the finest ingredients.
From classic dark chocolate truffles to innovative flavors like rosemary and raspberry, there’s something for everyone at Angels Food Factory. And if you can’t decide what to get, don’t worry – the friendly staff will be happy to help you choose the perfect treat.
So whether you’re looking for a unique gift or just a little something to satisfy your sweet tooth, be sure to stop by Angels Food Factory on your next trip to Paris.
8. Fou de Pâtisserie
The Fou de Pâtisserie chocolate shop in Paris is a must-visit for any chocolate lover. Located in the trendy Marais district, the shop specializes in artisanal chocolates made from the finest ingredients.
The chocolates come in a variety of flavors, including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate. The shop also offers a variety of Chocolate boxes for gifting, as well as a selection of chocolate-themed products, such as cocoa nibs and chocolate-covered almonds.
Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or simply want to indulge your sweet tooth, Fou de Pâtisserie is the perfect destination.
Address: 45 Rue Montorgueil, 75002 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
9. La Belle Epoque
La Belle Epoque is a historic chocolate shop in the heart of Paris. The shop was founded in 1892 and has been in continuous operation ever since. The shop is located on the ground floor of a beautiful Haussmannian building on the Rue de Rivoli.
The shop’s decor is inspired by the Art Nouveau style of the early 20th century, and its chocolates are considered to be some of the best in the world. La Belle Epoque’s signature chocolate is the dark chocolate truffle, which is made with Venezuela cacao and has a rich, intense flavor.
The shop also offers a wide variety of other chocolate confections, including chocolate-covered almonds, orange peel, and hazelnut pralines. In addition to its delicious chocolates, La Belle Epoque also offers a unique shopping experience, with knowledgeable staff members who are passionate about chocolate and eager to share their knowledge with visitors.
Address: 36 Rue des Petits Champs, 75002 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
10. Chocolaterie de l’Opéra
Chocolaterie de l’Opéra is a premiere chocolate shop in the heart of Paris. The shop is known for its fresh, handmade chocolates that are inspired by the changing seasons. The chocolates are made with a focus on quality, using only the finest ingredients.
In addition to their signature chocolates, Chocolaterie de l’Opéra also offers a selection of pastries, cakes, and other desserts. The shop has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff is always available to help customers find the perfect treat.
Address: 846 Chem. du Barret, 13160 Châteaurenard, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
What To Order At A Chocolate Shop In Paris
Paris is known for its fashion, cuisine, and art, but did you know that it’s also one of the best cities in the world for chocolate lovers? From iconic addresses like La Maison du Chocolat and Pierre Hermé to hidden gems like Chocolaterie de Damian and Angelina, the city is full of delicious places to indulge your sweet tooth. So what should you order when you visit a chocolate shop in Paris? Here are a few ideas:
• A box of truffles: French truffles are world-famous for a reason. Rich and velvety, they’re the perfect bite-sized treat.
• A hot chocolate: In Paris, hot chocolate is serious business. Order one at Angelina and you’ll be served a cup of rich, thick chocolate that’s more like a meal than a drink.
• A chocolate croissant: Flakey and buttery on the outside, with a warm filling of melted chocolate on the inside, this is one of the most beloved pastries in Paris. You can find them at pretty much any bakery in the city, but they’re especially good at La Maison du Chocolat.
• A box of macarons: These colorful French cookies are almost too pretty to eat…almost. Fillings can include everything from traditional chocolate ganache to playful flavors like salted caramel or strawberry cheesecake. Pierre Hermé is widely considered to make some of the best macarons in Paris.
So next time you’re in the City of Light, be sure to stop by a chocolate shop and treat yourself to something sweet. Bon appétit!
Chocolate-Making Classes In Paris
For the ultimate chocolate-making experience, there’s no better place than Paris. The city is home to some of the world’s finest chocolatiers, and there are dozens of chocolate-making classes available to choose from. If you’re looking for hands-on experience, you can try your hand at making truffles at one of the many cooking schools in the city.
Or, for a more laid-back approach, you can simply enjoy a Chocolate Tour which takes you to some of Paris’s most iconic chocolate shops. Whichever way you choose to indulge, you’re sure to have a sweet time in the City of Light.
Click here to check out some available chocolate-making classes in Paris, France.
A Guide To French Chocolates For Sale Online
When it comes to gourmet chocolate, France is definitely one of the leading countries in the world. French chocolates are renowned for their rich flavor and smooth texture, and there are many different types to choose from. If you’re looking for French chocolates for sale online, here’s a guide to some of the most popular varieties:
- Dark chocolate is made with a higher percentage of cocoa than milk or white chocolate, giving it a deep, intense flavor. It’s often used in baking or for making chocolate ganache.
- Milk chocolate is made with milk powder or condensed milk, which gives it a sweeter flavor and creamy texture. It’s perfect for eating on its own or using in desserts.
- White chocolate contains no cocoa solids, so it has a milder flavor than dark or milk chocolate. It’s often used in baking, as it holds its shape well when melting.
Recipes Using French Chocolate
French chocolate is some of the best in the world, and it can be used in a variety of recipes to create rich, decadent dishes. Here are just a few ideas:
For a simple yet elegant dessert, try dipping strawberries in melted French chocolate.
Add a sophisticated twist to your morning coffee by stirring in some grated French chocolate.
Make a classic chocolate cake even more indulgent by using French chocolate in the frosting.
Create a rich and creamy chocolate sauce for ice cream or pudding by using French chocolate as the base.
With so many ways to use it, French chocolate is a must-have ingredient for any chocoholic!
In conclusion
If you’re looking for some of the best chocolate in the world, you definitely need to try French chocolate. It’s rich, flavorful, and can be used in a variety of recipes to create truly indulgent dishes. So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, be sure to pick up some French chocolate and enjoy!
