I almost walked right past it.

Tucked between a florist and a tiny bookshop on a quiet side street in Chamonix, France, Chocolatier Confiseur didn’t scream for attention — and somehow that made me trust it immediately. A large bold lettered sign, two small tables out front, the smell of butter and espresso drifting onto the cobblestones. I pushed open the door and didn’t leave for two hours. 

For my main I ordered the croque madame — toasted brioche, smoky ham, bubbling béchamel and a perfectly fried egg on top. It arrived looking like something out of a food magazine and tasted even better than it looked. The béchamel was velvety and seasoned just right, not too heavy, not too bland. I cleaned the plate.

Gabby’s Rating

📍 Maison Dorée Le Marais, Paris, France Best for: Solo travelers, couples, anyone who loves good coffee and better pastries Must order: The croissant, croque madame, tarte tatin