Easter 2026: A Collection of Balloon Fish at L’Instant Cacao Near Palais-Royal

For Easter 2026, Marc Chinchole takes us on a seaside adventure with his playful collection of balloon fish. In his boutique-workshop near the Jardin du Palais-Royal, the chocolatier and roaster temporarily sets aside his rare chocolate bars to bring to life a whimsical aquatic world.

L'Instant Cacao is above all the story of a passionate chocolatier dedicated to the bean-to-bar craft, transforming cacao beans directly into chocolate bars. Transparency is key here: from the moment you step inside, you're greeted by the rich aroma of cocoa. The reason is simple—the workshop is right behind a glass wall, one of the smallest in France, where pure, artisanal craftsmanship takes centre stage.

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This year's star is undoubtedly the Goldfish, crafted from high-quality dark chocolate with 75% Roça Sundy cacao from Principe Island, or a milk chocolate at 55%. With its perfectly round shape and tiny stylized fins, it hides an assortment of dry candies and small praline and confiserie eggs inside. Available in small (70g, €17.60) or medium (165g, €36.30) sizes, each fish is unique—handmade with a different expression—so you can pick the one that tickles your fancy the most!

This item can only be purchased in-store, just like its fellow Eggs. They come in three sizes: 10, 14, or 18 cm (100g, €16.50; 160g, €27.50; 370g, €39), each filled with the same delicious ingredients as the previous versions. When we visited the shop, this particular one wasn't ready yet, but it’s now available—alongside the Cherry Blossom Egg, which is decorated with a delicate chocolate branch from this rosy tree, available in small or large sizes (160g, €30.80; 370g, €45).

You can also pick up Easter chocolates or mini praline rabbits for about fifteen euros. While kids will love the adorable faces of these fish-shaped confections, it's worth noting that the flavor might surprise those used to overly sweet mass-produced chocolate; here even the milk chocolate has a bold personality, with a strong cacao presence.

In the window display, passersby can admire an artistic creation crafted for Easter, which is not for sale: the Poisséidon, a giant version of the balloon fishes! Since everything is made on-site, stock can run out quickly for Easter pieces. Be sure to plan ahead for your festive table!