With the bitter cold of the last few days, all we want to do is find some comforting addresses! And we’ve found just the place, nestled in the Marais district of Paris: Mariage Frères. This institution, known the world over for its quality tea, also offers an exceptional tea time… This magical address, open since 1854, could well be the oldest tea salon in Paris…
Mariage Frères, the oldest tea salon in Paris
Since 1660, this French institution has been delighting the palates of tea lovers, from crowned heads to anonymous customers. On June 1, 1854, Mariage Frères, a large tea-trading family, set up shop on the rue du Bourg-Tibourg in the Marais district. This tea house quickly became a haven for tea-lovers from the neighborhood, and even from all over the capital, offering rare varieties from the four corners of the globe… Japan, China or India, no less than 1000 references can be tasted on site today.
His teahouse hasn’t changed in all that time. The wood-panelled décor still features tea chests from China, vintage scales and sieves. The bewitching scent of tea is already flattering our sense of smell, and heralds some wonderful moments to come... It was here, in this tea room, that the first brunch in Paris was served.
But if there’s one thing that really gets the crowds going, it’s its exceptional tea time, designed around tea. Each beverage offered is perfectly matched to the sweet and savoury delights of tea time, much as a sommelier would match wine and food. Tea time consists of three savory appetizers and four pastries… all infused and naturally colored with tea, to surprise your eyes and taste buds.
Tasty combinations, subtle, masterful notes… that’s what you’ll remember about the delicacies presented on site. Mariage Frères is one of the few institutions to perfect the art of cooking with tea, and you can feel it in every bite. A surprising snack that changes with the seasons, to be enjoyed at least once in your life!
Location: 30 Rue du Bourg Tibourg 75004 Paris
Price: approx. 65 euros