It's the season when Chocolate reigns King (but when isn't it!), and we see those lovely Chocolatiers brimming over with the most magical chocolate creations one can imagine. We are spoiled for choice this time of year with the beautiful offering available and rather than just choosing one, why not go out exploring and try them all !
For those of you that want to dive into a sea of chocolates, our Chocolate Map 'Your guide to Chocolates in Paris' gives you some of the best chocolateries and sweet shops we can think of to satisfy all of your Easter chocolate cravings.
It's hard to narrow it down to just a few (its the equivalent of asking someone who their favorite child is !), but here are some notes on our absolute favorites that just happen to be in our neighborhood :
Bon dégustation !
Michel Cluizel: The Cluizel dynasty's chocolate reign has endured for 60 years and counting, with no sign of slowing down. For serious chocolate lovers, check out their boutiques this Easter for delicious chocolate hens, rabbits, and even dinosaurs! You can also pick up one (or two or three!) of their multi award-winning chocolate bars while you're there.
2 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris, website
Pralus: This master of all things praline offers something a little different for those who seek an alternative to chocolate this Easter. The Praluline, a beautiful brioche studded with pink praline (sugared hazelnut and almond fragments), is a delectable treat for the breakfast table this Easter weekend. Their chocolates are also delightful!
35 Rue Rambuteau, 75004 Paris, website
Jacques Genin: In what we refer to as the 'NoMa' neighborhood (North Marais), you will find the gorgeous tea salon, and equally appointed pastries by the Caramel King, Jacques Genin. One of our favorite places to visit for a caramel fix, but this time of year there is even more magic going on with his beautiful selection of chocolate eggs!
133 Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris, website
Elisabeth : A rather new edition to the Marais neighborhood! This chocolate emporioum is from Belgium and their specialty is to highlight the amazing Chocolate Entrepreneurs in their boutique. Next to each Chocolate, you will find details of the producer. THey are dangerously close to us and definitly worth the visit!
22 Rue Vielle du Temple, 75004 Paris website
Pierre Hermé: It's hard to talk Chocolate (or Macarons for that matter) without mentioning the Maestro himself, Pierre Hermé. Every year with out fail, he wows us with his magical collection of Chocolates. A picture says a thousand words, need we say more?
18 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004 Paris, website
Edwart: This little boutique will bring joy to the whole family (his cute little Bunny creation can be seen in the header). With their delightful Easter collection of chocolate eggs and figurines, any chocolate-lover cannot afford to miss it! For the grown ups, their chocolate bonbons are a must-try. Sample the award-winning Taj Mahal, a gently-spiced sensation that simply dazzles on the palate.
17 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75004 Paris, website
Maison Aleph: Everything out of this little boutique is amazing. They are best known for their very delicate 'Nids', but this time of year they pair their delicate Nids with delicious Chocolates. On adore!
20 rue de la verrerie, 75004 Paris, website
So, as always, get out and explore - it is a part of your cultural research ! Think of all the exercise you will get walking in between each boutique ;)