Boulangerie Nicolas Flamel — Specialty Store in Les Halles, Paris

Boulangerie Nicolas Flamel is an independent bakery in Les Halles, and what you notice walking in is how much of the trade is local: the same faces at the counter through the day, a small room with a view into the kitchen, and a counter stacked with viennoiseries, breads and lunch items.

The croissant is the thing to order first: crisp on the outside, soft and buttery within, and the pistachio version carries a rich pistachio flavour that makes it worth a second purchase. The pain au chocolat comes with a generous filling, and the Baguette de Tradition stays crusty and soft inside even bought late in the day. For something savoury, the croque-monsieur, standard or veggie, is cheesy and satisfying, and the staff will heat it for you.

Sweet things beyond the croissants hold their own. The praline flan is dense and sweet, a raspberry tart on a pistachio base pairs fruit with nuts, and a slice of red velvet loaf stays moist with raspberries adding a tart edge. Pastries ordered in advance for a celebration come out as asked, including the raspberry and Nutella croissants.

There are about eight places to sit, so breakfast or a quick lunch here is easy, and the counter staff are welcoming and speak English. Prices are reasonable for Paris: a croissant and a coffee is a small spend, and a baguette, a slice of loaf and a cake together came to very little.

Come earlier in the day for the freshest viennoiseries.