The oldest shops in Paris

The passion has been passed down through generations.

Perhaps few countries have shops that have steadfastly pursued a single business for one or two centuries like France. Visiting these shops, you will understand how specialization has made the French so strong. Each old shop brings together a full range of goods in its specific field. At the same time, the shopkeepers are "living dictionaries," always ready to help customers understand each product in detail, offer practical advice, and satisfy the curiosity of even the most inquisitive customer.

Maintaining a business in a single field also allows the French to maximize their creativity. Step into a pastry shop, and you'll find the French creating a world of cakes, candies, and jams full of color and flavor. Step into an umbrella shop, and you'll be amazed by the creative designs of umbrellas.

At the same time, the French always preserve the secrets of previous generations, because they are the "treasures" that create the success and image of the shop in the eyes of customers. Moreover, in this country of cultural heritage, tradition is never something that can be destroyed or replaced. On the contrary, it is a national treasure, and inheriting tradition is how the French conquer new heights.

Seeing is believing, so let's explore some of the oldest shops in Paris to understand the unique French retail culture.

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THE TIN SOLDIERS' SHOP Au plat d'étain

Opened in 1775, Au Plat d'Etain is a shop specializing in the production and sale of miniature models and toys beloved by French children. All the miniature models in the shop are hand-carved and hand-painted, with exquisite detail. The shop has remained largely unchanged since its opening. You can find models from almost every era here. In addition, the shop also creates models of some of the most famous sporting events in world history.

Address: 16 Guisarde Street, District 6

Paris's Oldest Bakery - Stohrer

Nicolas Stohrer, the baker of Polish Princess Marie Leszczyńska (then married to King Louis XV and becoming Queen of France), opened this bakery in 1730. That's why Stohrer's bakery proudly boasts that its customers are enjoying desserts fit for royalty. Inside, the bakery is a world of colorful and flavorful pastries. Furthermore, Stohrer's interior design is a surprise waiting to be discovered. Don't miss the Baba au rhum, the bakery's most famous specialty!

Address: 51 Montorgueil Street, District 2

A Gentlemen's Pipe Shop À l'oriental

Despite its incredibly modest size, the À l'oriental pipe shop, which first opened in 1818, is a true miniature museum. Here, you can admire pipes made from a wide variety of materials. It's a favorite spot for Parisian gentlemen and tourists alike. Even if you don't smoke a pipe, just looking through the window is enough to delight you.

Address: 19/21 Galerie de Chartres, District 1

Debauve et Gallais, a chocolate shop over 200 years old.

The shop was founded by Sulpice Debauve in 1800. Twenty-three years later, it was taken over by Debeauve's nephew, Antoine Gallais. Therefore, it bears the combined name of the two men. Debeauve et Gallais supplied chocolate to Napoleon I and was the official chocolate supplier to three kings: Louis XVIII, Charles X, and Louis-Philippe. That's why the sign at Debeau et Gallais reads: "The chocolate shop of the French kings." The shop's chocolates are perfect gifts for someone who loves Paris.

Address: 30 Saints-Pères Street, 6th arrondissement

THE OLDEST CANDY SHOP IN PARIS À La mère de famille

À la mere de famille is the oldest confectionery shop in Paris, having opened in 1761. The drawers of this magical shop contain up to 800 varieties of confectionery from all over France. The chocolates, pastries, and ice cream sold here are all handmade by the shop's artisans. It is also known for having the best chestnut ice cream in Paris. Although the shop has changed ownership many times, the interior has remained virtually unchanged since its inception.

Address: 35 Faubourg-Montmartre Street, District 9

Herboristerie de la Place de Clichy

Stepping into Herboristerie de la Place Clichy, one of Europe's oldest herbal shops, you'll feel like you're in a Parisian "traditional medicine shop" with its pleasant aroma of herbs. Here you can find essential oils, herbal teas, powders, and massage creams... The shop uses over 900 different herbs to create its products. The sales staff are always pharmacists ready to advise you on the specific usage and dosage of the products; they can even formulate a personalized herbal remedy tailored to your needs right in the shop's small laboratory.

Address: 87 Amsterdam Street, District 8

ALEXANDRA SOJFER Umbrella Shop

Alexandra Sojfer, an umbrella designer, continued her mother's legacy by inheriting one of Paris' largest umbrella and parasol shops, founded by her maternal grandfather in 1834. By 2002, Alexandra Sojfer had launched her own brand, offering modern umbrella designs made from high-quality materials. She transformed umbrellas into sophisticated fashion accessories while maintaining the high standards of craftsmanship passed down from her parents. This can be considered a prime example of the French spirit of "continuing the legacy."