Within the last few years, Algerian pastries have experienced a new vogue in Paris, thanks in no small part to the popularity of La Bague de Kenza, a pâtisserie located on the rue Saint Maur in the 11th arrondissement. While La Bague de Kenza may be in the forefront of the trend with three other locations in the city, it is by no means the only option for those seeking pâtisseries orientales (as North African and Middle Eastern pastries are called in France). In particular, you can find the Algerian version of these sweet treats — often consisting of a combination of honey, nuts, and delicate pastry — in a number of places around town. But let the buyer beware, as these dainty morsels can be habit-forming.
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La Bague de Kenza
106, rue Saint Maur, 75011 Paris
Once you step inside this pastry wonderland, you might feel slightly lost contemplating the dozens of choices. As there aren't many signs, it's best to just point and inquire about the object of your interest. Well… known and beloved for its sweets, La Bague de Kenza also has delectable savory pastries, some named for its other locations around town (e.g. Saint-Antoine). If you prefer to take your pastry with tea, there is an adjoining tea room where you can also order more hearty fare like chicken couscous. (photo) [link]
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Le Faubourg de Kenza
173, rue du faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75011 Paris
An outpost of La Bague de Kenza on the rue du faubourg Saint-Antoine, this smaller shop offers fewer choices of pastry, but they are of the same high quality as at the rue Saint Maur location. There is an elegant… tea room above the shop with a good view of the lively street below. [link]
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M.H.C.
80, boulevard de Ménilmontant, 75020 Paris
This unassuming pâtisserie near Père Lachaise is well worth a visit for its flavorful and fresh pastries. Less expensive and "slick" than some other establishments, the pastries at M.H.C. have their own… charms, including unique flavor combinations and clear evidence of a master baker at work. [link]
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Les Noces d'Or
48, rue de Ménilmontant, 75020 Paris
The jewel-like pastries at Les Noces d'Or seem tailor-made to wow those lucky enough to receive a boxful as a gift. The doigts de sésame (sesame rolls) are especially good, but for those who love sweet,… sticky treats there are many tasty options. [link]
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Le Paradis Oriental
29, boulevard de la Villette, 75010 Paris
At Le Paradis Oriental you can buy pâtisseries orientales along with your daily baguette, as the store offers both traditional French baked goods and Algerian pastries. Located near the bustling rue de… Belleville, this is a good place to grab dessert after a meal, or to pick up a snack on your way to the Parc des Buttes Chaumont. [link]
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Tesnime
207, rue du faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75011 Paris
Located right beside the Faidherbe Chaligny Métro station, this friendly and colorful shop has a good range of traditional and more modern confections. If you can resist making a meal of the mouthwatering pastries,… Tesnime also has breakfast and lunch menus, as well as brunch on Sunday. [link]
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