Pierre Hermé: A Picasso in Haute Pâtisserie

No need for an introduction when we talk about the talented Pierre Hermé. Known as the “Picasso of Pastry” (Vogue Magazine) and the “King of Modern Pâtisserie” (The Guardian), he enjoys a quasi star status in many countries. His original approach to the traditional pastry field did create some turbulence in a well-established area. However, ahead on his time, Pierre Hermé has understood the challenge of a changing clientele and successfully tapped into a “hip” and more global demographic without forgetting his French roots. His approach includes a clean design with the elimination of excessive and unnecessary décor, the development of an original aroma palette thanks to the use of salt and other spices, and a constant reinvention of its work by the exploration of new ways to twist his recipe’s repertoire.

Pierre Hermé started his career at 14, as an apprentice of the famous French baker Gaston Lenôtre. At the age of 24, he became the head pastry chef for Fauchon where he will spend the next 10 years. In 1996, Pierre Hermé resign from his position and create La Maison Pierre Hermé Paris with his business associate Charles Znaty. Unexpectedly, the first store was opened in Tokyo in 1998, followed by a tea salon in 2000. The first Parisian store opened in 2001 on Rue Bonaparte in the trendy Saint-Germain-des-Prés district and became an instant success. Today, Hermé has successfully launched 7 boutiques in Tokyo and 4 in Paris including a professional baking school.

Pierre Hermé store on rue Bonaparte

Pierre Hermé - Bûche de Noël

Yule log "Bûche 2000 Feuilles" (89 € for 6/8 persons)

Pierre Hermé Macarons

The success of Pierre Hermes is quite apparent. You will probably need to stay in line outside the store to get some delicious pastries. However, contrary to some of its competitors that may treat you like a “heard”, here the kind and smiling Hermé's staff will offer you some chocolates while you wait, making the experience quite enjoyable.

As for any masterpiece, you will need to spend some money, but perfection has no price! The macarons we bought at Hermé were by far the best we had. In every bite, you can truly taste the work and creativity of the Master. The amazing flavor combination as well as the generous cream bring these little delights to the Pantheon of the Macaron. If you have one stop to make during your next trip to Paris, La Maison Pierre Hermé is definitely the must.