TREAT YOURSELF: CAKE AND TEATIME IN PARIS
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Treat. Yo. Self.
The French Queen Marie Antoinette was famously quoted (or misquoted) as having said “Let them eat cake.” While in the context of peasants begging you for bread, that's not cool. In any other context, we think it’s a good idea.
Paris is gastronomic capital of the world. This includes a sugar-filled world of gateaux, éclairs, tartes and all other desserts you can imagine. Sure you can get a stellar pastry at a bakery and a cup of coffee at some trendy coffee joint, but sometimes you need a bit more indulgence, even on a modest budget. When you get a little weary while touring (or you can just make it the day's destination), why not stop in one of these salons du thé?
Below are 5 recommendations where you can order a sweet slice and a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and relax. You will be able to take your time and, in the words of one Tom Haverford, treat yourself..
Some of Paris's tallest lemon meringue pie in the Mariais
3, Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris
This cute café, in the centre of the Marais, is kitted out with mismatched chairs and tables, and old posters all over the walls. The draw here is there amazing selection of freshly made cakes and pies. The lemon meringue is possibly the tallest in Paris and tastes delicious, too.
8, Rue de l'École de Médecine, 75006 Paris
Hidden on the Left Bank in a little street is this small bakery with a seating area on the side. The staff don't speak a lot of English here but it’s easy to order with a point and a smile. The hot chocolate is definitely worth trying.
MARIAGE FRERES - MAISON DE THE A PARIS
30, Rue du Bourg Tibourg, 75004 Paris // Carrousel de Louvre, Carrousel du Louvre, 99, Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris // 13, rue des Grands-Augustins, 75006 Paris // 260, Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris
If you like to tea like a proper English lady, Maraige Frères is the destination for you as they take their tea seriously. With over 600 different types to choose from and 4 locations dotted around Paris, you can easily make this an afternoon event. They also offer lunch, brunch and afternoon tea food options.
A fabulous Paris Brest from Jacques Genin
133, Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris
Tucked away at the top of the Marais, near Republique, you'll find one of our favorite artisan chocolate boutiques with a tea room. Their millefeuille is the stand-out here. Prepare for a sugar rush since you will be treated to some of their specialty chocolates when you order your coffee and cake.
4, Cours du Commerce Saint-André, 75006 Paris
Well known for their chocolate inspired menus, this restaurant is also a salon du thé everyday from 3pm to 6pm. It even houses a bit of the old wall of Paris from the 12th century. History and treats? It's a winner.
