Ah, Paris! The city of lights, love, and… chocolate? Indeed, while many flock to Paris for its iconic landmarks, delicious macarons, and illustrious art galleries, those in the know will tell you that the city’s chocolateries are destinations in their own right.
From the intricately detailed truffles that look too good to eat (but are oh-so-delicious when you do), to the rich, velvety hot chocolates that warm your soul on a brisk Parisian morning, the French capital has carved out a niche for itself in the world of cocoa. I live in France and these are hands down the best chocolate shops in Paris you need to try if you have a sweet tooth!
Venturing beyond the popular avenues and into the cobbled alleys, one is greeted by the intoxicating aroma of melting chocolate and the sight of glistening ganaches. Each chocolatier in Paris has a story to tell, a secret recipe to share, and a unique flair to their creations.
So, whether you’re a dedicated chocophile or simply have a sweet tooth to satisfy, journey with me as we explore the best chocolate shops in Paris. Prepare to be enchanted, one bite at a time.
Paris is renowned for its exquisite chocolateries, and while there are numerous shops worthy of acclaim, here’s a selection of some of the most renowned and beloved ones:
Jacques Genin
Jacques Genin in the Marais district is a haven for chocolate and caramel lovers. Jacques Genin, a master of tastes and one of the world’s top chocolate creators, operates in his workshop in the center of Paris. Genin’s pâte de fruits and chocolate tarts are the stuff of legends. The team makes enticing chocolate pastries for all to enjoy.
133 Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris, France
À la Mère de Famille
À la Mère de Famille is Paris’s oldest chocolaterie, established in 1761. Stepping inside is like taking a journey back in time. The vintage ambiance perfectly complements their traditional confections. Their pralines and fruit jellies (pâtes de fruits) are especially renowned. The history and tradition behind this shop make it a must-visit for anyone serious about chocolate.
35 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris, France
Chocolaterie Cyril Lignac
Coming from the celebrated chef Cyril Lignac, these chocolates reflect a perfect balance of tradition and innovation. The shop also offers other pastries and confections that are worth trying.
25 Rue Chanzy, 75011 Paris, France
Le Chocolat Alain Ducasse
Yes, that Alain Ducasse. The famed Michelin-starred haute cuisine chef opened several Ducasse chocolate shop counters across Paris, where everything, from roasting the cacao beans to molding the bars, is done in-house. The results are pure, rustic, and deeply flavorful chocolates. The chocolates here have a distinct, rich taste, emphasizing the natural flavors of the cacao. There’s a good one inside the Galeries Lafayette store and the biggest shop is located in the Bastille neighborhood.
40 Rue de la Roquette, 75011 Paris, France
11 Rue des Petits Champs, 75001 Paris, France
53 Rue Cler, 75007 Paris, France
47 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris, France
Pralus
Pralus chocolate shop specializes in single-origin chocolate bars. If you’re keen on tasting the unique flavor profiles of cacao beans from different regions, this is a must-visit.
35 Rue Rambuteau, 75004 Paris, France
Au Chat Bleu
Au Chat Bleu is a French chocolaterie and confectionery shop dating back to 1912. Founded in Le Touquet, France, this family-run establishment is renowned for its high-quality chocolates, caramels, and other sweet treats. Using traditional recipes and techniques, Au Chat Bleu has garnered a loyal following who appreciate the authenticity that goes into each creation. While the shop may not be based in Paris, it’s a beloved name in the world of French sweets.
85 Bd Haussmann, 75008 Paris, France
Edwart Chocolatier
A newer entrant in the scene, Edwart quickly made its mark with inventive flavors and a focus on sourcing the best ingredients.
244 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
17 Rue Vieille-du-Temple, 75004 Paris, France
Patrick Roger
Patrick Roger, a winner of the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France award for chocolate, creates incredible chocolate sculptures alongside his sumptuous confections. The flavors are innovative, and the textures are impeccable. This is not just a chocolate shop, but an art gallery!
108 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France
3 Place de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris, France
Jean-Paul Hévin
If you like chocolates with a bit of an edge, this is the place. Jean-Paul Hévin offers classic chocolates but isn’t afraid to play with flavors like blue cheese. There’s also a chocolate bar upstairs where you can sip on various hot chocolates.
231 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France
Michel Cluizel
The Cluizel family has been making chocolate for generations. They’re one of the rare chocolatiers that transform the raw cacao beans into finished chocolate bars, ensuring quality at every step. Their range of single-origin bars offers a fascinating exploration of flavors from different regions of the cacao-producing world.
201 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France
Fouquet
Fouquet is an old Parisian chocolate shop that has a long family history. Since 1852, they have been a leading confectionery artisan in France selling candy, chocolate, and gourmet sweets. They’ve been able to preserve their business because of strict recipe traditions.
23 Rue François 1er, 75008 Paris, France
36 Rue Laffitte, 75009 Paris, France
Chocolat Chapon
Patrice Chapon is known for his bean-to-bar approach. What sets him apart is his mousse bar, where you can taste chocolate mousses made from single-origin chocolates. Each mousse has a distinct flavor profile, showcasing the unique characteristics of cacao from different regions. His chocolate bars and pralines are also exceptional.
69 Rue du Bac, 75007 Paris, France
Damyel
Damyel is a small Parisian artisanal chocolate shop located on a bustling street in the Marais neighborhood. Founded by Richard Uzan in 1988, the store has been a mainstay in Paris for sweet chocolate treats.
46 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris, France
Yves Thuries
Yves Thuries is a chocolate shop located in central Paris.
12 Rue de l’Isly, 75008 Paris, France
La Maison du Chocolat
A well-known chain in the Parisian chocolate scene, La Maison du Chocolat sells classic refined chocolates, truffles, and pastries. Their ganaches are especially delightful.
8 Boulevard de la Madeleine, 75009 Paris, France
225 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris, France
52 Rue François 1er, 75008 Paris, France
99 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
19 Rue de Sèvres, 75006 Paris, France
L’Atelier du Chocolat
L’Atelier du Chocolat is a small local chocolate shop that makes chocolate with heart and soul!
109 Rue du Havre, 75009 Paris, France
Pierre Hermé
Though more famous for his macarons, Pierre Hermé’s chocolate creations are equally exceptional. The taste combinations are adventurous and often marry traditional ingredients with exotic flavors. You can always count on Pierre Hermé to make a sugary sweet you’ll love!
133 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France
All of these establishments are integral parts of the Parisian chocolate landscape. Each offers unique flavors, presentations, and histories, making them essential stops for chocolate aficionados visiting the City of Lights.
While these are some of the best, the beauty of Paris is that there’s always a hidden gem around the corner. So, whether you’re sticking to this list or wandering off the beaten path, you’re sure to discover chocolate that delights your palate!
