This viennoiserie, a favorite of young and old alike, is one of the stars of brunch. Invented by the Austrians, pain au chocolat is a more gourmet version of the croissant, with a delicious piece of cocoa inserted inside. Without rekindling the national “pain au chocolat or chocolatine” debate, we’ve put together a selection of the best places in Paris to get your hands on one. To be enjoyed without moderation!
Le Ritz Paris le Comptoir
Created by the world’s best pastry chef, François Perret, the Ritz’s pain au chocolat is distinguished by its highly original shape. The idea was to enjoy this pastry without getting it all over the place! A shape that avoids waste and gives more room to the chocolate bar. Crispier than the classic viennoiserie, this version is perfect for enjoying anywhere!
📍Location: 38, rue Cambon 75001 Paris
Boulangerie Michalak
If you love chocolate, you’re in for a treat! Christophe Michalak has added a very generous bar to his version of pain au chocolat. Here, the chocolate stick weighs 12 g and is made from 80% dark chocolate, 20% milk chocolate and a touch of fleur de sel. In short, a real treat!
📍Location: 8 Rue du Vieux Colombier, 75006 Paris
Cédric Grolet
We often talk about his trompe-l’œil pastries, but we never dwell (and that’s a shame) on his other creations. And yet, when it comes to the “classics” of French patisserie, Cédric Grolet has something to surprise you. His pain au chocolat is as beautiful as it is crisp. Inside, the chocolate used comes from the Alain Ducasse factory. It’s easy to see why he’s such a hit with tourists and Parisians alike!
Maison Pottier
In this IDF bakery, the pain au chocolat was voted ” France’s best pain au chocolat 2024“. And believe us, it didn’t steal its title. This pure butter viennoiserie was judged not only on the quality of its chocolate, but also on its shine, its baking… and, of course, its taste! Try it, you’ll see!
📍Location: 12 boulevard Charles Nélaton, 91460 Marcoussis
Bo&Mie
Well-known among gourmets, Bo&Mie bakery offers some truly delicious pains au chocolat. But our favorite is the one with praline filling. Very gourmand and above all ultra-regressive!
Philippe Conticini
Known for his XXL croissant, chef Philippe Conticini also offers his giant version of pain au chocolat. To be reserved at least 48 hours in advance by phone, you can share it with loved ones for a snack (or not).
📍Location: 27 Place Dauphine 75001 Paris