Afternoon Queens, the British crockery store in Paris

In Paris, there are very discreet local gems we pass by without even thinking about the treasures they hold. Afternoon Queens is part of them. This unique store set on rue de Turenne in the Marais neighborhood is very appealing with its flowery façade where typically English crockery lies before your eyes. It’s hard to miss it and we recommend you go inside because it’s very worth it.

This is where you’ll meet Hortense, the master of the place. A wonderful and warm person fond of the English way of life. She lived in the United Kingdom for a long time and once back in Paris, she’s decided to bring us all we need for a royal teatime! She warmly welcomes us and walks us through her Lewis Caroll-like world. Because here, we feel a bit in wonderland, a bubble taking us outside Paris and where our biggest problem is to make a choice.

Beautiful teapots, cups, display stands and all you need to have a charming tea set, this is what you’ll find. You’re taken in a tornado of colors and laces where you can sometimes see the members of the royal family adorning some of the items. Crockery worthy of Buckingham Palace expects you to bring a beautiful British touch to your place.

And if you really have a sweet tooth, good news: you can also enjoy nice English teas or freshly baked scones to bring before you keep visiting the Marais.

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Raisins, cheese or plain, warm and served with a generous spoonful of jam for the greatest sweet teeth, this is all you need to satisfy your taste buds. But if you want to continue your experience in Hortense’s wonderland, have a seat at the lovely table set in the back of the store and enjoy a oh-so-British break.

All along your tour, you’ll see people come and go, say hi to Hortense and walk around too, and this gourmet break actually becomes a true Mad Hatter’s teatime.

We must say that Hortense holds a certain place in the hearts of the locals and we gladly go to this colorful world. That’s a local gem proud to be one!

Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.