My Daily Tart Journey in Paris

This article first appeared in the March 18, 2023, issue of Dinogo Travel, a biweekly update from Dinogo’s team on exploring culinary destinations.Subscribe today.

If you’ve ever thought about visiting Paris, you’re probably aware that bakeries are a highlight. With countless boulangeries and patisseries, it's tempting to stop at every beautifully designed bakery window (guilty as charged). Unfortunately, vacation time often falls short for indulging in all the baked treats available. However, you can do this: Treat yourself to one tart each day.

It wasn’t until a few days into my trip that I realized I had naturally adopted a tart-a-day routine. Once I recognized that I was ending my day with a sweet treat—a tartlet picked up earlier at a bakery—I made it my goal to find a tart spot near every museum, restaurant, or attraction on my itinerary. I effectively utilized this patisserie map along the way.

Previously, I had overlooked the delicate, single-serving tarts found in most Parisian bakeries, opting instead for more casual viennoiseries like croissants and chaussons that I could munch on the go. In doing so, I missed out on some of the finest creations from the city’s pastry chefs. I used to think that tarts with their beautifully arranged fruits and expertly piped creams deserved a sit-down experience. But I discovered that taking a moment to enjoy them is truly worthwhile, whether it’s Tapisserie’s renowned maple tart, an apple tart from Claire Damon’s Des Gâteaux et du Pain, or any delightful pastry combination that catches your eye at your neighborhood boulangerie.

Of course, indulge in as much viennoiserie as you can handle. I’m not suggesting you skip dessert at restaurants, but by making room for a tart at the end of your day, you’ll ensure that you leave Paris feeling like you truly explored its bakery scene—not just window shopping. Additionally, pastry shops excel at packaging their treats to keep them intact for your return. While the presentation may suffer if your dessert shifts during transport, the first bite (and every one after) will be delicious.