Today, I’m excited to spill the beans on my absolute favorite things to shop for at one of the most iconic spots in Paris – Le Bon Marché. Trust me, this place isn’t an ordinary department store; it’s a treasure trove waiting to be discovered, including high-end shopping and a luxurious grocery store. So, without further ado, let me walk you through my top three must-have items that you simply can’t leave Le Bon Marché in Paris without!
Bonnat Chocolate
Starting by La Grande Epicerie du Bon Marché, located on the corner of Rue du Bac and Rue de Sèvres in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, is one of my favorite ways to begin. The chocolate aisle is visible from the entrance and the moment you step into it, you’re greeted by a heavenly aroma that beckons you closer. There are dozens of high-end chocolate brands to chose from but my personal favorite has been Bonnat for years. I’m not a fan of assortments – you never know what you might find and not in a good way IMO – so my go-to are always chocolate bars or tablettes, as we say in French. From rich dark chocolate to creamy milk chocolate, Bonnat offers a delectable range of flavors that never disappoints. My personal favorite is their buttery and smooth dark Madagascar chocolate – it melts in your mouth like no other!
Bonnat Chocolate is hard to find in other stores in Paris, but they do have a website you can order from if stopping by Le Bon Marché is not an option. Their website does need a refresh, but I promise the chocolate is worth it.
A higher-end take on the Paris souvenir
If you’re looking to bring souvenirs home, I advise you to shop at Le Bon Marché in Paris to find something truly special.
If you’re shopping for yourself or a woman on your list, a beautiful space dedicated to fashion jewelry is located on the ground floor. They carry well-known Parisian brands such as Charlotte Chesnais, Gas Bijoux as well as more confidential designers such as Boks & Baum Paris.
If you’re shopping for children, the third floor is a dream with its toy and clothing selections. They carry many designers from Dior and Bonpoint to more accessible French brands Jacadi and Petit Bateau. They also have a whimsical collection of stuffed animals and original toys you won’t find anywhere else.
Books, books, books
If you’re looking to bring back pretty French stationary, Le Bon Marché carries pretty notebooks, writing paper and greeting cards. I always buy my Season’s Greetings and greeting cards. Next to the stationary, you will find books, from coffee-table to the latest French releases and a small aisle dedicated to English language books.
Whether you’re a bookworm like me or just looking for the perfect gift for a literary lover, Le Bon Marché’s book department is a paradise for bibliophiles. From enchanting children’s books that ignite the imagination to captivating novels that whisk you away to far-off lands, there’s a book here for every age and interest. Personally, I can never resist picking up a few titles for myself.
So there you have it, my top three favorite items to buy at Le Bon Marché in Paris. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the city of lights, be sure to swing by this iconic department store. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!