What Is a Bakery Called in Paris?

By Robert Palmer

When you think of Paris, you may think of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or the Seine River. But did you know that Paris is also famous for its bakeries?

In fact, the city has a long history of baking and pastry-making that dates back centuries. So what is a bakery called in Paris? Let’s explore.

Boulangerie vs Pâtisserie

In Paris, there are two types of bakeries: boulangeries and pâtisseries. A boulangerie specializes in bread and other savory baked goods, while a pâtisserie focuses on sweet pastries and desserts. Both types of bakeries are an integral part of French culture and can be found on almost every street corner in Paris.

Boulangerie

If you’re looking for a fresh baguette or croissant for breakfast, then head to a boulangerie. These traditional French bakeries offer a wide range of bread and savory pastries such as quiches or sandwiches.

Some popular boulangeries in Paris include Poilâne, Eric Kayser, and Gontran Cherrier. These bakers use traditional methods to make their bread and often source their ingredients locally.

Pâtisserie

If you have a sweet tooth, then a pâtisserie is the place for you. These shops specialize in sweet pastries such as macarons, éclairs, tarts or cakes.

Some famous pâtisseries in Paris include Ladurée, Pierre Hermé or Angelina. These pastry chefs are known for their artistic creations that not only taste delicious but also look like works of art.

Boulangerie-Pâtisserie

In recent years there has been an increasing number of bakeries that combine the traditions of both boulangeries and pâtisseries. These hybrid bakeries are called boulangerie-pâtisserie or simply, “boulangerie.” They offer a wide range of bread, pastries, and desserts.

One popular boulangerie-pâtisserie in Paris is Du Pain et des Idées. This bakery is known for its delicious bread as well as its unique pastries such as the “escargot” which is a spiral-shaped pastry filled with almond cream and raisins.

In Conclusion

So, what is a bakery called in Paris? It depends on what you’re looking for.

If you want bread and savory pastries, go to a boulangerie. If you have a sweet tooth, head to a pâtisserie. And if you want both, try a boulangerie-pâtisserie.

Regardless of where you go, one thing is for sure: French bakeries are an essential part of the country’s culinary heritage and culture. So next time you’re in Paris, be sure to stop by one of these wonderful bakeries and indulge in some delicious French pastries!

  • Boulangeries specialize in bread and savory baked goods
  • Pâtisseries focus on sweet pastries and desserts
  • Boulangerie-patisseries offer a combination of both

Some popular bakeries in Paris:

  1. Poilâne
  2. Eric Kayser
  3. Gontran Cherrier
  4. Ladurée
  5. Pierre Hermé
  6. Angelina