Experience 86 Champs: Pierre Hermé’s Exquisite Pastries Meet L’Occitane’s Luxury on the Champs-Élysées
Nestled on the iconic Champs-Élysées, just a short stroll from the magnificent Arc de Triomphe, lies 86 Champs – a truly unique concept that blends the art of French patisserie with the sensory world of luxury skincare. This distinctive establishment is the brilliant brainchild of two renowned French names: the acclaimed pastry chef Pierre Hermé and the beloved body care brand L’Occitane. Far more than just a cafe, 86 Champs offers an unparalleled experience, making it a standout among Parisian cafes and a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of Parisian luxury and innovation.
A Parisian Gem: Your Guide to Visiting 86 Champs
My enthusiasm for exploring Parisian novelties recently led me to 86 Champs, prompted by a visit from my best friend. We were eager to uncover fresh culinary delights beyond the classics, and 86 Champs quickly became a cherished discovery, standing alongside other memorable experiences like tea at Le Meurice and the decadent chocolate mousse at Chapon chocolate mousse bar. Its prime location on the world-famous Champs-Élysées makes it incredibly accessible and an ideal starting point or luxurious pause during a day of sightseeing.
During her week-long stay, 86 Champs became our preferred spot for breakfast, a testament to its charm and culinary excellence. We returned no less than three times, enchanted by the impeccable French omelettes, the fragrant Ispahan lattes, and the utterly divine pistachio and chocolate-filled croissants. For those with a penchant for exquisite sweets, a dedicated macaron bar offers a vibrant array of flavors, perfect for enjoying on-site or selecting a beautifully boxed assortment to take home. If French macarons are on your must-try list, look no further – this is the ultimate destination.
The allure of 86 Champs lies not only in its exquisite offerings but also in its unparalleled location. Situated on one of the most prestigious avenues in the world, it provides a sophisticated escape from the bustling city. Imagine starting your day with a flawless pastry and a rich coffee, then stepping out onto the Champs-Élysées, ready to explore Paris’s grandeur. It’s truly an experience that captures the essence of Parisian luxury and gastronomic delight.
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The Master of Patisserie: Pierre Hermé
Hailed by Vogue as “the Picasso of pastry,” Pierre Hermé is a name synonymous with innovation, artistry, and unparalleled flavor in the world of French patisserie. Born into a family steeped in the Alsatian baking and pastry-making tradition, Hermé’s destiny in the culinary arts was almost predetermined. His early exposure to the craft, combined with an innate genius, led him to revolutionize the pastry landscape.
Internationally recognized, Hermé has garnered immense fame not only in France but also in Japan and the United States, where his creations are highly sought after. While he is most celebrated for his exquisitely delicate macarons, often featuring audacious and unexpected flavor combinations, his repertoire extends far beyond. His pastries are miniature works of art, each a testament to his precision, creativity, and profound understanding of taste and texture. We wholeheartedly believe that his macarons, with their perfectly crisp shells and melt-in-your-mouth fillings, are simply the finest in all of Paris.
What sets Pierre Hermé apart is his audacious approach to flavor. He is known for pushing boundaries, combining ingredients in ways that surprise and delight the palate. His philosophy revolves around creating emotions through taste, turning each bite into a memorable experience. His contributions have elevated patisserie to an art form, making him a true legend in the culinary world and a driving force behind the exceptional offerings at 86 Champs.
A Sensory Journey: L’Occitane’s Touch
Renowned globally for their exquisite, Provence-inspired body care products, L’Occitane en Provence brings a distinct sensory dimension to the 86 Champs experience. The brand, deeply rooted in the traditions and natural beauty of the South of France, is celebrated for its commitment to natural ingredients, ethical sourcing, and enchanting fragrances that evoke the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence.
In a stroke of genius, L’Occitane has partnered with Pierre Hermé to craft a luxury cafe and concept store that transcends traditional boundaries. This collaboration allows visitors to immerse themselves in a holistic sensory journey where taste and scent intertwine. Imagine indulging in a perfectly crafted Pierre Hermé macaron while simultaneously browsing L’Occitane’s range of luxurious hand creams, often discovering that the two share harmonious scent profiles or complementary flavors. It’s an innovative concept where you can literally “taste” and “feel” the same inspiration, creating a truly unique and memorable experience that is nothing short of divine.
The integration of L’Occitane’s world into 86 Champs is seamlessly executed, with areas dedicated to showcasing their products, allowing guests to sample and purchase while enjoying their culinary treats. This thoughtful fusion enhances the overall ambiance, inviting guests to explore textures, aromas, and tastes in a way that stimulates all the senses. It’s a brilliant demonstration of how two seemingly disparate luxury brands can come together to create something truly magical and unforgettable in the heart of Paris.
Indulge Your Senses: What to Savor at 86 Champs
The Iconic Ispahan Flavor
The name “Ispahan” might conjure images of an ancient city in Iran, but in the world of Pierre Hermé, it represents a legendary flavor combination that has become a cornerstone of his patisserie. This iconic creation is a delicate yet remarkably fragrant blend of rose, litchi, and often raspberry, resulting in a harmonious symphony of sweet, floral, and subtly tart notes. It’s a flavor profile that is utterly unique and undeniably captivating, standing as one of my personal favorite combinations.
The Heavenly Ispahan Croissant
If you’re a connoisseur of fine pastries or simply open to an extraordinary culinary adventure, you absolutely cannot leave Paris without experiencing the Ispahan croissant at 86 Champs. This isn’t just any croissant; it’s a masterpiece. Each flaky, buttery layer encases a generous filling of sweet, fragrant Ispahan cream, imbued with the distinct essence of rose and the subtle sweetness of litchi, often with a hint of raspberry. The first bite is nothing short of heavenly – a perfect balance of textures and flavors that linger delightfully on the palate. For me, it was arguably the most memorable treat I sampled during my numerous visits to 86 Champs, a true testament to Pierre Hermé’s genius.
Pistachio and Chocolate Croissant
While the Ispahan croissant holds a special place, the pistachio and chocolate croissant offers another equally irresistible indulgence. My friend MA, with whom I shared countless delightful breakfasts, sampled this decadent pastry and generously offered me a taste. The combination of rich, high-quality chocolate and the distinctive, nutty flavor of pistachio creates a truly harmonious blend. Each bite is a delightful interplay of textures – the crisp exterior of the croissant giving way to a soft, flavorful filling. It was incredibly satisfying and perfectly complemented by a warm cup of coffee or an Ispahan latte, providing a memorable start to any Parisian day.
The Art of the Perfect French Omelette
Beyond the sweet temptations, one of the most remarkable and often overlooked culinary highlights at 86 Champs is the opportunity to savor a truly perfect French omelette. This seemingly simple dish is, in fact, an exquisite test of a chef’s skill and finesse. A perfectly executed French omelette is a rare find, even in France, making its consistent presence on the menu at 86 Champs a testament to their dedication to culinary excellence.
What makes a French omelette “perfect”? It should be uniformly yellow, without any trace of browning, indicating it has been cooked gently and quickly. Its texture should be incredibly smooth and creamy, devoid of lumps, almost melting in your mouth. Expertly rolled rather than folded, it appears almost cylindrical on the plate, holding its delicate shape. This dish is a masterclass in subtlety and technique, offering a savory counterpoint to the sweet pastries.
To truly appreciate the visual perfection, I’ve included a video below that illustrates what a meticulously cooked French omelette should look like, allowing you to see the standards upheld at 86 Champs.
Remember, a true French omelette distinguishes itself by its unblemished, even yellow hue, its incredibly smooth texture, and its elegant, rolled presentation. It’s a simple yet profound culinary delight that showcases the finest in French cooking.
The Ambiance: More Than Just a Cafe
Stepping into 86 Champs is an experience that goes beyond mere dining; it’s an immersion into a world of refined elegance and sensory pleasure. The interior design reflects the sophistication of both Pierre Hermé and L’Occitane, blending modern aesthetics with classic Parisian chic. The space is thoughtfully designed, featuring elegant lighting, comfortable seating, and subtle touches that create an inviting and luxurious atmosphere.
There’s a harmonious balance between the vibrant displays of Pierre Hermé’s colorful macarons and pastries, and L’Occitane’s beautifully presented skincare products. The air is subtly perfumed with the delicate scents of Provence, mingling with the irresistible aromas of freshly baked goods and brewing coffee. This multi-sensory environment ensures that every moment spent at 86 Champs is a delightful indulgence, stimulating not just your taste buds, but also your sight and smell.
The service is impeccable, embodying the warmth and professionalism characteristic of high-end Parisian establishments. Staff are knowledgeable about both the culinary creations and the L’Occitane product range, ready to assist and enhance your visit. Whether you’re seeking a quiet corner for a morning coffee or a lively spot for an afternoon treat, the ambiance at 86 Champs adapts, providing a versatile and always welcoming setting. It’s a place where you can linger, unwind, and truly savor the luxurious side of Parisian life.
Your Visit to 86 Champs: Practical Information
To fully experience this extraordinary luxury cafe and concept store, planning your visit is simple. 86 Champs is conveniently located on the illustrious Champs-Élysées, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Paris. Whether you’re starting your day with a gourmet breakfast or taking a refined break from sightseeing, 86 Champs offers a sophisticated haven.
Address:
86 Champs Avenue des Champs-Élysées
75008 Paris
Located near major metro lines and within walking distance of several iconic Parisian landmarks, it’s an unmissable stop for anyone visiting the city. Make sure to allow ample time to explore both the culinary delights and the exquisite L’Occitane offerings.
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