I stopped here to buy a gâteau Basque, one of my favorite things to eat in the world. I had previously visited their sister store in Bordeaux (loved it) and wanted to see if one of their locations in the Basque region was just as good. It is! They had large and individual sized cakes. I bought a small cake and was pleased to see a flavor I had not yet seen - citron. It was a nice balance between sweet and tart. The crust was as wonderful as the filling. I also tried the local version of the macaron, which is similar to the type you will see 3 hours north in Saint-Emilion. I believe it is made with hazelnut flour instead of almond and they are naturally colored (no food coloring) and they are not filled. It was freshly made and very tasty. The staff was very kind and helpful, although surprised that I only wanted one macaron. I politely explained that I was dieting and was trying to keep my treats to a minimum. The window had a lovely display with elaborately made animals and other creatures out of chocolate for the upcoming Easter holiday. The shop also had a large selection of chocolates. If you are someone with a sweet tooth or know someone who is, it is worth visiting while you are in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. read more

We had tasted the basque cake at another bakery but saw someone eating one that looked better and it was from here so we decided to visit. What a place. It's not the place to go if you are hungry since it can satisfy your sweet or savory taste buds. Personally, I could never work there as I would be as big as a house. Within two hours of leaving the place I tasted their cherry basque cake, macrons, chocolates and caramels. I enjoyed every bite and brought some home for gifts. The store celebrated their 100th anniversary in 1995 so they are doing something right :) They have a website for ordering which can also be a dangerous thing! read more

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I visited France 7 months ago, and still dream about these little mouchous! They are soft, chewy, and delicious. So much better than a macaroon! They also carry delicious little, chewy caramels in several flavors. Those are perfect for traveling! read more

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Just standing in this confectionery store is a wonderful feeling. The staff is warm, friendly, and attentive. The patrons follow a friendly and orderly fashion - not a single person glaring or pushing or trying to cut in front of anyone. I loved looking at all the wonderful sweets, arranged in such a perfect and lovely fashion in their cases. I got one of each of the macaroons. You might think vanilla is a bit simple, but it was simply perfect and was the best of them. The Brit had an eclair that was one of the best I've ever had. Typically the pastry is soggy, but not this one. There's even a tiny sliver sheet of real gold topping it. It was divine and he enjoyed it at a local cafe with an Armagnac and coffee. I also bought marzipan done in the design of the Basque flag, supposed to be flavored plain, raspberry and pistachio, but it all pretty much tastes the same. Ultimately, the marzipan is just OK. There are four total locations for Paries, and while in France that could likely be considered a "chain," it's totally worth it and gives you that vacation indulgence you love to have when somewhere foreign - er, at least I love to have. :) I would recommend getting yourself a treat and sitting outside in the courtyard, but even with rain soaked days you can enjoy Paries sat inside a warm cafe. read more