First introduced to France in 1615 at the wedding of Louis XIII and Anna of Austria, and later popularized by Louis XIV at Versailles, chocolate quickly became all the rage. It's really no surprise that Paris is now home to some of the world's best chocolate makers. With so many options, our culinary guide to Paris—a chef or food writer—will carefully curate the best and weave them together into a revealing, 2.5-hour chocolate tour that explains how Paris came to be at the center of the chocolate world, and why that matters. 

• Small group of up to 6 people
• Led by a professional chef or food writer
• Discover the evolution of chocolate, from bean to delicacy, with ample tastings

Truffles, pralines, ganache...What's the difference? Our walk, beginning in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, will answer these questions and more, delving into the sweet world of chocolate in Paris. Visiting several chocolate shops, we'll indulge our sweet tooth, and maybe even stop to admire the whimsically detailed chocolate sculptures at a classic chocolaterie. Tasting their wares, we'll discuss the process behind the transformation from cocoa bean to the various chocolate delicacies sold in shops today and maybe touch on chocolate's transformation from a luxury good to affordable treat.

We'll go on to discuss the rich dessert history associated with Paris and, more importantly, the evolution of the celebrated Parisian treat, the macaron. Stopping at a variety of these sweet confectioner's shops, we will compare and contrast the flavors, products, and techniques used. We may visit a top boutique to sample their flavorful take on the macaron or try the colorful array of chocolates, macarons, and petit-fours beckoning from behind the glass cases at a family-owned boulangerie. From marvelous meringue to rich pure chocolate, this walk will tantalize every one of your senses.

Led by a professional gastronome—a chef or professional food journalist, our chocolate walk varies depending on their personal favorite places to indulge, giving you a local guide to Paris' sweet scene. This edible adventure through Paris' upscale and iconic Left Bank neighborhood will enhance your appreciation for this sweet treat, as well as open your eyes to the complex science involved in the chocolate-making process. Our docent will also be available to facilitate transactions and individual purchases for guests.