15 Views

Some spots in Paris really feel like they belong in a storybook, and Chapon et la Chocolaterie, simply steps away from the majestic Saint-Sulpice Church, is one in every of them. From the second I laid eyes on the classic candy-shop-style storefront, I used to be hooked. It has that old-world allure—striped awning, elegant typography, and a glowing window show that proudly showcases its crown jewel: the well-known chocolate mousse bar.

This isn’t your common Parisian chocolate store. It’s small, quirky, and looks like stepping again in time, however the chocolate? Forward of its time.

Introduction to Chapon et la Chocolaterie

Based by Patrice Chapon, a former ice cream maker for Buckingham Palace (true story!), this boutique is the results of over 30 years of passionate chocolate craftsmanship. Chapon is a real bean-to-bar pioneer in France, personally choosing cacao beans and overseeing each transformation step.

What makes Chapon distinctive is its steadiness of playfulness and precision. It’s not a stiff, intimidating chocolatier. It’s a spot the place chocolate feels each luxurious and joyful, and locals line up alongside curious vacationers, keen for his or her mousse repair.

Location and Ambiance

The Chapon boutique we go to on our Paris meals tour is simply across the nook from Saint-Sulpice, the second-largest church in Paris. It’s a peaceable nook of the Left Financial institution, simply far sufficient from the crowds, however nonetheless full of life with Parisian allure.

Inside, the store is what I’d name Paris-sized, which means very small and really busy. There’s only one counter, separating you from rows of lovely chocolate bars, ganaches, and truffles, all wrapped in vibrant, unique packaging that jogs my memory of one thing between classic journey posters and a scene from Jumanji.

Regardless of the tight house and infrequently lengthy line (particularly on weekends), there’s a welcoming vitality right here. The distributors take their time with every buyer, guiding you thru their 25+ single-origin goodies, providing considerate suggestions and tasting notes with real enthusiasm.

Chapon’s Signature Creations and Menu Overview

The Chocolate Mousse Bar

That is THE purpose to go. Patrice Chapon’s chocolate mousse bar is iconic and it’s precisely what it feels like: a bar, however as an alternative of drinks, you’re selecting from completely different types of chocolate mousse, every made with cacao from a special origin (Peru, Venezuela, Madagascar, and so on.).

The mousse is served in paper cones or to-go cups, with a 100g minimal per order. It’s served with an ice cream scoop, proper in entrance of you, and feels each decadent and informal on the identical time. I went for a 70% Madagascar mousse, and it was unimaginable – silky, wealthy, not too candy, and intensely chocolatey.

Bars, Bonbons & Extra

• Single-origin bars (with tasting notes like wine!)
• Ganaches and stuffed goodies in playful flavors
• And don’t skip the darkish chocolate with salted caramel—it made my eyes roll again in one of the best ways

There are additionally seasonal collections, particular version packaging, and wonderful present containers that make nice souvenirs or considerate presents.

High quality and Style

Chapon strikes a gorgeous steadiness between traditional French chocolate craftsmanship and daring innovation. Every part is made out of scratch, beginning with rigorously sourced beans, and crafted of their atelier. This offers Chapon whole management over taste and texture, and you’ll completely style that distinction.

What units them aside:

• Single-origin chocolate mousse: a uncommon discover
• Surprisingly nuanced taste profiles—fruity, floral, smoky, nutty
• A dedication to pure components, with no shortcuts

In comparison with different prime chocolatiers like La Maison du Chocolat or Jean-Paul Hévin, Chapon feels extra enjoyable, much less formal, whereas nonetheless providing world-class high quality.

Service and Expertise

Service is pleasant, heat, and educated. Even when there’s a little bit of a wait, the workers by no means rush you. They’ll fortunately clarify the distinction between a Venezuelan and a Tanzanian origin mousse or provide help to construct the proper field of goodies for somebody particular.

And even for those who’re not shopping for a lot, they’ll nonetheless give you a tasting or a smile. It’s a boutique that respects the artwork of chocolate however by no means takes itself too significantly.

Pricing and Worth for Cash

Chapon is a premium chocolatier, so costs replicate that, however they really feel honest:

• Chocolate mousse cone (100g): ~6€

• Chocolate bars: ~6-9€ relying on origin

• Reward containers: 15-40€ relying on dimension and choice

For the standard, originality, and general expertise, I’d say it’s completely price it. And since the mousse is so wealthy and satisfying, 100g goes a good distance, it’s a dessert that sticks with you (in a great way).

Very best Time to Go to

If you wish to beat the crowds, go earlier than 4 PM, particularly on weekends. They typically run out of mousse by the late afternoon, and as soon as it’s gone, it’s gone.

Spring and fall are notably good occasions to go, when you may take your cone and sit within the little sq. in entrance of Saint-Sulpice, or head to the Luxembourg Gardens only a brief stroll away. Each make excellent backdrops for indulging on this candy deal with.

Why Go to Chapon et la Chocolaterie?

In case you’re a chocolate lover, it is a non-negotiable cease in Paris. It’s a kind of uncommon locations that feels native however delivers global-quality taste. It’s additionally one of many few spots in Paris the place you may see and style how the origin of cacao impacts the ultimate product.

Chapon can also be featured on our Left Financial institution Chocolate & Pastry Tour and is a spotlight of our Paris Meals Tour. Belief me, it leaves a long-lasting impression on each visitor.

Ultimate Ideas and Advice

Would I am going again? In a heartbeat.

Chapon is right for:

• Chocolate lovers (clearly!)
• Reward customers—particularly these in search of one thing authentic and delightful
• {Couples} or solo vacationers in search of an indulgent break between sightseeing
• Even households—the mousse bar feels playful sufficient for youths, too

It’s a spot you’ll need to revisit in each season, simply to see what new origins or flavors they’re taking part in with subsequent.

FAQs

Does Chapon et la Chocolaterie supply vegan or sugar-free choices?

Some bars could also be dairy-free, however all the time test labels. Not absolutely vegan-focused.

Is it essential to make a reservation for tasting experiences?

No reservations wanted. Simply stroll in, seize a mousse, and luxuriate in.

What are the best-selling goodies at Chapon?

The chocolate mousse cones, single-origin bars, and salted caramel bonbons are perennial favorites.

Does Chapon supply present or customization choices?

Sure! Stunning present containers and customizable chocolate assortments can be found—excellent for particular events.

Sources:

Chapon. (n.d.). Chapon chocolatier. https://chapon.com/

Consuming Europe. (2023, March 22). Finest chocolate in Paris: 5 must-try locations. Consuming Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/weblog/best-chocolate-in-paris/

Consuming Europe. (n.d.). Paris meals excursions. Consuming Europe. Retrieved April 11, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/paris/