And the Winner of the 2024 Best Baguette in Paris is ...

Journal · April 2024 · 3 min read · First published in Your guide in Paris

In a country where bread is practically a religion, Paris takes its annual “Grand Prix de la Baguette de Tradition Française” very seriously.

This year, the very coveted prize goes to Xavier Netry of Boulangerie Utopie, in the 11th arrondissement! Netry's baguette triumphed thanks to its masterful execution across every aspect judged by the jury.

Let's delve into what makes a truly award-winning baguette :

• The bake : A perfect bake is all about achieving a beautiful golden color on the crust, without any burning or undercooked patches.

• The taste : The ideal baguette delivers a harmonious combination of flavors, with a well-balanced hint of salt.

• The crumb : This is the heart of the baguette : its texture is crucial ! The crumb (we call it “mie”) should be light and airy, with a slight resistance when squeezed.

• The appearance : The visual appeal of a baguette shouldn't be underestimated. The crust should have a consistent color and a good rise, with clean cuts on the top of the baguette. The overall shape should be long and slender, with a pointed tip.

• The odor : A truly exceptional baguette should possess a delightful aroma. Imagine this : just out of the oven, a warm, wheaty scent with a hint of sweetness from the caramelization … Trust me, that’s a baguette that won’t make it back to your home !

Netry's baguette excelled in all these categories, impressing the jury with its perfect balance : a light, airy crumb with a satisfyingly crisp crust.

This winning baguette will not only be enjoyed by Parisians throughout the year, but it will also be served at the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the French President !

Did you know ?

There are strict rules governing what qualifies as a traditional baguette.

It must :

• Be between 55 and 70 centimeters long

• Weigh between 250 and 300 grams

• Be made with only four ingredients : wheat flour, water, yeast, and salt

The name “Pain de tradition française” is even protected by law since 1993 !

A baguette for everyone in Paris!

While Utopie takes the crown this year, Paris is blooming with fantastic boulangeries.

Here is the top 10 of this 2024 competition, all known for their exceptional baguettes de tradition :

1. Boulangerie Utopie — 20, rue Jean-Pierre-Timbaud (11^e)

2. Maison Doré — 29, rue Gay-Lussac (5^e)

3. La Parisienne — 85, rue Saint-Dominique (7^e)

4. Boulangerie Rougès — 45, avenue de Saint-Ouen (17^e)

5. L’Écrin gourmand — 15, avenue du Docteur-Arnold-Netter (12^e)

6. Boulangerie AA — 63, rue du Javelot (13^e)

7. Boulangerie Paris and Co - 4, rue de la Convention (15^e)

8. Maison M — 2, avenue de la Porte-Didot (14^e)

9. Aux Délices de Vaugirard — 48, rue Madame (6^e)

10. Du Pain et Vous — 63, avenue Bosquet (7^e)

So next time you're strolling the streets of Paris, keep an eye out for these bakeries, or any other that smells great !

After all, there's nothing quite like a fresh baguette, crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, to complete your Parisian experience.

Bon appétit !