The exceptional matcha tart from Pâtisserie Les 3 Chocolats as Galette des Rois

It's not really a galette des Rois, since it doesn't have puff pastry, but it's so good that we simply close our eyes and ask for more. Pâtisserie Les 3 Chocolats doesn't have the space in its laboratory to get into puff pastry, but that's no problem: a few years ago, it decided to offer an alternative that's worth its weight in gold.

Nestled on rue Saint-Paul, Les 3 Chocolats offers a refined matcha tart that pays tribute to Japanese elegance. Although it doesn't use puff pastry, this creation is no less festive. It features a matcha shortbread, a matcha ganache and cookie, a crunchy almond and hazelnut praline, and an artisanal bean celebrating nature. Available in two formats(€32 for 4 people, €47 for 6/8 people), it combines tradition and innovation.

Crumbly shortbread, finely-dosed matcha, melting and crunchy praline: everything is there to delight our senses, and we love it!

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Behind this gourmet address are Emiko Sano and her husband Sho Kimura, the duo behind modern pastries and unique chocolates. Emiko Sano, who comes from a line of Japanese chocolatiers going back to her grandfather Gensaku Sano, combines the expertise passed down for three generations with her experience working with big names such as MOF Olivier Bajard and the Plaza Athénée. Since 2017, their Parisian boutique has been seducing customers with creations that blend audacity and delicacy.

In the 3 Chocolats showcase, you'll find around six pastries that change with the seasons, as well as some twenty chocolates in a variety of flavors. Among the must-tries are hazelnut praline, hojicha orange blossom chocolate and sesame praline, alongside more daring creations such as miso or wasabi chocolate. Matcha lovers will be delighted by chocolate bars or bonbons.

Sweet tooths will also appreciate the intimate atmosphere of the boutique, where it is possible to sample these sweets on the spot, although seating is limited. Whether for the matcha tart or other signature creations such as the famous "3 chocolates", this address is a must for gourmets curious to discover a different kind of patisserie, where Japan and France meet with brio.

In short, for a change from the galette while retaining the conviviality of sharing and the surprise of the bean, head to Les 3 Chocolats at 45, rue Saint-Paul in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. Open Thursday to Monday, 11am to 7pm. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.