Carette

25 Place des Vosges, 75003 Paris 

To be clear, we don’t review chains, but this is an exception. It’s not corporate, but it is definitely a Parisian institution as emblematic as the Sorbonne. The pastries gleam with that impossible sheen only French pâtissiers and luxury sports cars seem to achieve. The croissants shatter like they’re mad at you. The tarte au citron hits with enough sting to remind you you’re alive.

One thing to add, don’t sleep on the food. People come here for hot chocolate and sweet treats, but the lunch menu has never disappointed. Try their specials, delicious and satisfying. Finally of their several locations, I would recommend the one on Place des Vosges in the Marais. A bit less touristy, and the surrounding square is particularly romantic.