The Grand Prix de la Pâtisserie de Paris 2026 once again invites Parisian pastry chefs to reveal their creative talent. In the capital, this prestigious competition launched in 2019 by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo with the support of celebrity chef Pierre Hermé celebrates the excellence of know-how in the bakery-pastry trades. Entries remain open until Friday, October 24, 2025, enabling working professionals in the capital and young talent training in Parisian establishments to take part in this fine gourmet adventure.
The theme of this 2026 edition of the Grand Prix de la Pâtisserie is"Paris, City of Love". This theme invites candidates to draw inspiration from the capital's romantic soul, its gardens, emblematic bridges and moonlit strolls. It's a poetic way of celebrating the art of pastry-making, while paying homage to the mythical image of Paris the world over.
The originality of the competition lies in the requirement to include at least one locally-produced ingredient: aromatic herbs, honey, edible flowers, chocolate or fruit. This requirement enhances the value of Parisian production and encourages short distribution channels, an approach that is perfectly in line with the sustainable development dynamic promoted by the City of Paris. This is in keeping with the spirit of the Fabriqué à Paris label, which highlights local craftsmanship.
Pastry chef Pierre Hermé, nicknamed the "Picasso of patisserie", co-chairs the jury for this major annual event. Heir to four generations of Alsatian bakers-pâtissiers, the man who revolutionized the art of Haute-Pâtisserie brings his creative vision and exacting standards to the competition. Voted best pastry chef in the world in 2016 by the Academy of World's 50 Best Restaurants, Pierre Hermé embodies the French excellence that the Grand Prix aims to promote.
His dazzling career, from his debut with Gaston Lenôtre at the age of 14 to the creation of his own house in 1998, makes him an ideal mentor for this new generation of talent. His iconic creations, such as Ispahan and Infiniment Vanille, bear witness to the innovative approach that characterizes contemporary Parisian patisserie.
The competition is divided into two categories. On the one hand, professionals working in Paris: patissiers, bakers and pastry chefs from the capital's hotels and restaurants. On the other, young talents in training at Parisian pastry schools or apprenticeships.
This two-pronged approach makes it possible to showcase both proven expertise and emerging creativity. The professional winner will receive 4,000 euros from the City of Paris, while the winner of the "Jeunes Talents" category will benefit from a one-week internship at the prestigious Maison Pierre Hermé. An exceptional opportunity to perfect your training with a master of the profession.
The Grand Prix de la Pâtisserie is one of a number of initiatives that contribute to the international reputation of Paris as a gastronomic capital. It joins the famous Grand Prix de la Baguette, the Fabriqué à Paris label and the Prix du Goût d'Entreprendre.
These competitions testify to the City of Paris' ongoing commitment to local commerce and crafts. At a time when the transmission of know-how is becoming crucial, these initiatives create positive emulation among craftspeople. They also help to keep alive the unique ecosystem for which the French capital is renowned worldwide.
Previous editions have revealed talents such as Raamin Samiyi from Momzi patisserie (winner 2024 with his "Opéra de plongeon"), Jordan Talbot and Quentin Lechat, who passed through the Royal Monceau and will be making a name for himself very soon. These achievements illustrate the springboard effect of the competition for pastry-making careers.
Interested candidates must complete and return one of the two application forms available on the official City of Paris website by 2 pm on October 24. After this first stage, they will receive a technical file to complete and return to the dedicated address.
A pre-selection committee will analyze the entries to check that they comply with the imposed theme and use at least one ingredient made in Paris. Successful candidates will then be asked to submit six pastries, which will be tasted by an exceptional panel of judges.
The jury will be co-chaired by Nicolas Bonnet Oulaldj, Deputy Mayor of Paris in charge of trade and crafts, and Pierre Hermé. It will be made up of pastry professionals, representatives of professional federations and randomly selected Parisians. This composition guarantees both a technical and a general public view of the creations presented.
Once again this year, the capital is set to vibrate to the rhythm of pastry creativity. A great opportunity to discover the future talents who will spread the French art of living around the world.
Dates and Opening Time
From August 21, 2025 to October 24, 2025
Recommended age
For all
Booking
www.paris.fr
