Hi!
My name is Lana. I've being reading discussions on this side for two years now but was to shy to participate. I am dessert caterer and cake decorator relatively new in the business. I learned a lot from reading this forum. You all are great. Originally I am from East Europe; I make my desserts from scratch, mostly French pastries.
In the end of September my husband and I are going to Paris. It will be our first visit and we are much exited. Now I need your advice. Please give me names and addresses if possible of "must see" pastry shops and equipment stores in Paris.
Thank you

By Pastrygirl (Pastrygirl) on Tuesday, August 19, 2003 - 02:59 am: Edit

Hi Lana!

I've never been to Paris, but I'm excited for you! There's a book called "Paris Sweets"... pick it up if you want to find the best places in Paris for pastries and candies. But, THE ONE THING that I suggest that you try are the MACARONS! They aren't the nasty coconut things they have here in the States. They are these slightly crunchy-soft pastries that are filled with silky ganache usually...WOW! I had a French Chef do a demo on these things. They blew me totally out of the water!

By Pastrycrew (Pastrycrew) on Wednesday, August 20, 2003 - 02:52 am: Edit

hi lana,

you may want to check out hediard, fauchon and la duree while you're in paris. there are tons of places but those three are a good start. you may also want to check out Gaston Lenotre as well, there's a couple of their stores around. They also have books, especially check out La Duree, perhaps you can pick up a copy of Pierre Herme's book.

There's one store called MORA that sells equipment, tools etc. Just around the corner there's another store as well, but I can't remember the name :/

You'll have to check out on a map and a telephone book for the addresses but they're worth it. Those three pastry shops are very popular, a resident should be able to give you easy directions as well.

It's been a few years since I've lived in Paris, but hope this was a little helpful. I would ask around a lot when there to find out the hottest new shops.

All the best,

bt

By Matisse (Matisse) on Wednesday, August 20, 2003 - 08:35 pm: Edit

You cannot go to Paris without running into a good patisserie. They are on every corner. Especially, check out some family owned neighborhood bakeries where you find so many versions of pithivier or religeuse and such.