Chapon et la Chocolaterie Review

Some spots in Paris feel like they belong in a storybook, and Chapon et la Chocolaterie, just steps away from the majestic Saint-Sulpice Church, is one of them. From the moment I laid eyes on the vintage candy-shop-style storefront, I was hooked. It has that old-world charm—striped awning, elegant typography, and a glowing window display that proudly showcases its crown jewel: the famous chocolate mousse bar.

This isn’t your average Parisian chocolate shop. It’s small, quirky, and feels like stepping back in time, but the chocolate? Ahead of its time.

Introduction to Chapon et la Chocolaterie

Founded by Patrice Chapon, a former ice cream maker for Buckingham Palace (true story!), this boutique is the result of over 30 years of passionate chocolate craftsmanship. Chapon is a true bean-to-bar pioneer in France, personally selecting cacao beans and overseeing every transformation step.

What makes Chapon unique is its balance of playfulness and precision. It’s not a stiff, intimidating chocolatier. It’s a place where chocolate feels both luxurious and joyful, and locals line up alongside curious tourists, eager for their mousse fix.

Location and Ambiance

The Chapon boutique we visit on our Paris food tour is just around the corner from Saint-Sulpice, the second-largest church in Paris. It’s a peaceful corner of the Left Bank, just far enough from the crowds, but still lively with Parisian charm.

Inside, the shop is what I’d call Paris-sized, meaning very small and very busy. There’s just one counter, separating you from rows of beautiful chocolate bars, ganaches, and truffles, all wrapped in vibrant, exotic packaging that reminds me of something between vintage travel posters and a scene from Jumanji.

Despite the tight space and often long line (especially on weekends), there’s a welcoming energy here. The vendors take their time with each customer, guiding you through their 25+ single-origin chocolates, offering thoughtful recommendations and tasting notes with genuine enthusiasm.

Chapon’s Signature Creations and Menu Overview

The Chocolate Mousse Bar

This is THE reason to go. Patrice Chapon’s chocolate mousse bar is iconic and it’s exactly what it sounds like: a bar, but instead of drinks, you’re choosing from different varieties of chocolate mousse, each made with cacao from a different origin (Peru, Venezuela, Madagascar, etc.).

The mousse is served in paper cones or to-go cups, with a 100g minimum per order. It’s served with an ice cream scoop, right in front of you, and feels both decadent and casual at the same time. I went for a 70% Madagascar mousse, and it was incredible – silky, rich, not too sweet, and intensely chocolatey.

Bars, Bonbons & More

Single-origin bars (with tasting notes like wine!)
Ganaches and filled chocolates in playful flavors
And don’t skip the dark chocolate with salted caramel—it made my eyes roll back in the best way

There are also seasonal collections, special edition packaging, and lovely gift boxes that make great souvenirs or thoughtful presents.

Quality and Taste

Chapon strikes a beautiful balance between classic French chocolate craftsmanship and bold innovation. Everything is made from scratch, starting with carefully sourced beans, and crafted in their atelier. This gives Chapon total control over flavor and texture, and you can absolutely taste that difference.

What sets them apart:

Single-origin chocolate mousse: a rare find
Surprisingly nuanced flavor profiles—fruity, floral, smoky, nutty
A commitment to natural ingredients, with no shortcuts

Compared to other top chocolatiers like La Maison du Chocolat or Jean-Paul Hévin, Chapon feels more fun, less formal, while still offering world-class quality.

Service and Experience

Service is friendly, warm, and knowledgeable. Even when there’s a bit of a wait, the staff never rush you. They’ll happily explain the difference between a Venezuelan and a Tanzanian origin mousse or help you build the perfect box of chocolates for someone special.

And even if you’re not buying much, they’ll still offer you a tasting or a smile. It’s a boutique that respects the art of chocolate but never takes itself too seriously.

Pricing and Value for Money

Chapon is a premium chocolatier, so prices reflect that, but they feel fair:

Chocolate mousse cone (100g): ~6€

Chocolate bars: ~6-9€ depending on origin

Gift boxes: 15-40€ depending on size and selection

For the quality, originality, and overall experience, I’d say it’s absolutely worth it. And because the mousse is so rich and satisfying, 100g goes a long way, it’s a dessert that sticks with you (in a good way).

Ideal Time to Visit

If you want to beat the crowds, go before 4 PM, especially on weekends. They often run out of mousse by the late afternoon, and once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Spring and fall are particularly nice times to go, when you can take your cone and sit in the little square in front of Saint-Sulpice, or head to the Luxembourg Gardens just a short walk away. Both make perfect backdrops for indulging in this sweet treat.

Why Visit Chapon et la Chocolaterie?

If you’re a chocolate lover, this is a non-negotiable stop in Paris. It’s one of those rare places that feels local but delivers global-quality flavor. It’s also one of the few spots in Paris where you can see and taste how the origin of cacao affects the final product.

Chapon is also featured on our Left Bank Chocolate & Pastry Tour and is a highlight of our Paris Food Tour. Trust me, it leaves a lasting impression on every guest.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Would I go back? In a heartbeat.

Chapon is ideal for:

Chocolate lovers (obviously!)
Gift shoppers—especially those looking for something original and beautiful
Couples or solo travelers looking for an indulgent break between sightseeing
Even families—the mousse bar feels playful enough for kids, too

It’s a place you’ll want to revisit in every season, just to see what new origins or flavors they’re playing with next.

FAQs

Does Chapon et la Chocolaterie offer vegan or sugar-free options?

Some bars may be dairy-free, but always check labels. Not fully vegan-focused.

Is it necessary to make a reservation for tasting experiences?

No reservations needed. Just walk in, grab a mousse, and enjoy.

What are the best-selling chocolates at Chapon?

The chocolate mousse cones, single-origin bars, and salted caramel bonbons are perennial favorites.

Does Chapon offer gift or customization options?

Yes! Beautiful gift boxes and customizable chocolate assortments are available—perfect for special occasions.

Sources:

Chapon. (n.d.). Chapon chocolatier. https://chapon.com/

Eating Europe. (2023, March 22). Best chocolate in Paris: 5 must-try places. Eating Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/best-chocolate-in-paris/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Paris food tours. Eating Europe. Retrieved April 11, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/paris/