Maison Mulot

The basics

As adept at traditional breads as it is delicate pastries, Gérard Mulot pâtisserie has long been celebrated for its flaky croissants, colorful macarons, perfectly crisp-chewy-tender baguettes, and other classically French delicacies. Founded by esteemed pastry chef Gérard Mulot in 1975, it has ranked among Paris’ top bakeries for decades. In 2016, pastry chef Fabien Rouillard took on the running of the house and renamed the bakery Maison Mulot. While most original recipes have been preserved, Rouillard’s new emphasis on seasonality has modernized the shop’s offerings.

In addition to its pastry counter, Maison Mulot’s terrace is also an elegant place to enjoy brunch, a range of savory dishes, cocktails, and other treats while soaking up the neighborhood’s romantic ambiance.

Things to know before you go

• Maison Mulot is known for having long lines (particularly on weekends), but don’t let them dissuade you: Its pastries and breads are worth waiting for.

• The pâtisserie’s croissant is considered one of the finest in Paris, while its strawberry tart was rated the city’s best by Le Figaro.

• A second Gérard Mulot location can be found on Rue de la Glacière, in the 13th arrondissement.

How to get there

Maison Mulot is located on Rue de Seine in the 6th arrondissement. The pâtisserie can be accessed via Metro (take line 4 or 10 to Odéon station, or line 10 to Mabillon station) and by bus lines 58, 63, 86, 87, and 96. It can also be reached on foot, by Vélib’ bike, or by taxi.

When to get there

The bakery opens daily from 7am to 8pm and is at its busiest during weekend brunch service. It closes for several days over the winter holidays, which can vary annually; if you’re looking to visit close to Christmas or New Year’s, it’s worth researching its hours in advance.

House specialties

Maison Mulot’s most popular treat remains its Amaryllis: a dessert of pistachio-nougat macarons with raspberries and vanilla. In addition to classic French pastry staples, its signature creations range from the kouglof (a traditional Alsatian bundt cake) to the ardéchois (a chestnut-and-whiskey mousse that’s only available in the fall and winter).

Ways to explore

Maison Mulot is often included in food tours of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood along with other landmark eateries and gourmet shops, such as Les Deux Magots, Poilâne, and Ladurée. Nibble your way through the neighborhood with an insider guide to cover these famous spots, plus little-known gourmet gems. Alternatively, stop by Maison Mulot on your own after a walking, bike, or golf cart tour of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of the most fascinating districts on the Left Bank (Rive Gauche). Many hop-on hop-off river boat and bus tours also stop nearby.

Accessibility

The pastry shop is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None; kids love picking out colorful macarons and other sweet treats at this cheery bakery.

What to pack

Cash or credit card, camera if visiting as part of a neighborhood tour, reusable shopping bag, refillable water bottle

What to wear

Opt for comfortable shoes and sun protection if you’re joining a walking food tour.

Not allowed

Customers are not allowed to handle the items in pastry shops but should wait to be served.

Amenities

Note that there are no public restrooms at the pastry shop.

Address

Maison Mulot is located on Rue de Seine in the 6th Arrondissement, a picturesque walk through Saint-Germain-des-Prés from many city sights. There are also two metro stops nearby to reach the shop by public transportation.

Driving

Narrow, one-way streets and limited, expensive parking make driving to Saint-Germain-des-Prés stressful. Walk or take public transportation instead.

Public transportation

The pâtisserie can be accessed via metro; take line 4 or 10 to Odéon station, or line 10 to Mabillon station. Bus lines 58, 63, 70, 86, 87, and 96 all stop locally.

Best times to visit

Peak times include the breakfast rush, lunchtime, and early evening as Parisians head home from work. Late morning and mid-afternoon are the best times to bypass the crowds.

Best days to visit

The shop is open from Tuesday through Sunday all day, but closed on Mondays. Weekends are often very busy, so visit during the week.

Best months to visit

This pastry destination is busy all year round, but visit during the Christmas holidays for seasonal treats and unique gifts.