PAUL is a true patisserie and bakery of fantastic quality. Started in France over 100 years ago, it now has countless locations throughout Europe and they are all, quite surprisingly, very consistent in quality and range despite its ever-growing size. We’ve been to PAUL in several cities now, though mostly in London. They are everywhere and I’m actually quite glad.
The pastries and desserts have never been our favorite. We aren’t particularly into French-style baked goods generally. Though I do like the chocolate torte (sliced like a cake). But the croissants (particularly in the Paris locations) and the fresh baked breads (particularly the baguettes – poppy seed, sesame, multigrain, and plain) are fantastic. We’ve bought fresh baked bread loaves there countless times and have never been disappointed.
They also have a full range of coffees and teas, but the best is their hot chocolate. It’s melting chocolate: very thick, very rich, and dark. In addition to pastries, desserts, and breads, you can choose from a range of sandwiches made daily, which are surprisingly good quality – probably because the bread is so fresh and great.
In London, they also have a flagship store near Covent Garden, which operates more as a full-fledged restaurant. There you can have waiter service and a full menu (soups, salads, entrees). PAUL is not just a safe bet, it’s a great option, so if you’re in need of a bit of a break or some fuel and you come across a PAUL, then do drop in.
