4 Best Places to Shop in St-Germain-des-Pres, Paris

After working with Pierre Hermé and at top palace hotels, Claire Damon opened her own pastry shop that translates to "Cakes and Bread," a simple name that downplays her artistic sophistication. Descended from a long line of accomplished chefs, Damon understands that the best results are produced with the finest ingredients. Her exquisite pastries and breads, made with carefully acquired, often organic ingredients are mouthwatering works of art. The individual fruit tarts are almost too beautiful to eat, but you'll be glad you did.

After years of working with the best and brightest in the Paris pastry world, superstar Christophe Michalak is now opening boutiques, writing books, and promoting his skills. His signature pastries are smooth, eye-popping ovals of glazed perfection, whether the bright orange mango mousse with crunchy textures or the green pistachio coconut version. If you're less adventurous, the small vanilla cake is rich and flavorful.

Pierre Hermé might just be Paris's most renowned pâtissier, and this shop sells his peerless cakes and macarons along with many chocolate delights (classic varieties, like the dark-chocolate and orange-rind batons, are perennial favorites). Try the delicate Cheesecake Satine, made with passion fruit and orange marmalade. You can also sample his creations at several cafés throughout St-Germain-des-Prés.

The gorgeous, delicate pastry creations made by Japanese-born Sadaharu Aoki are a delightful mix of traditional French with his signature Asian flavor and design touches. Look for green tea, black sesame, and yuzu versions of updated classics like éclairs, mille-feuille, and other elegant baked goods, as well as artfully presented colorful batons of chocolate.