It is common knowledge that for the French, baguette is much more than just bread—it is part of the local culture. As such, the locals are often happy to argue among themselves about the important question: who makes the best baguette in Paris?
Since 1994, the city of Paris, alongside the bakers’ union, organize an official competition to decide what is the best baguette in the city of light. The jury includes the mayor of Paris, professional bakers and six random Parisian who are selected by lottery.
This year, some 270 baguettes participated in the competition. After a long process of examination—based on criteria such as crustiness, smell, texture and, of course, taste—the winner of the big prize was crowned—Taieb Sahal of the boulanger des Saveurs de Pierre Demours.
As the winner, he received a medal, a prize of 4,000 Euros, and the opportunity to become the official provider of baguettes to the Elysee Palace—the official residence of the French President.
“It’s great, of course!” Taieb Sahal told the local press. “I was not confident that I’d win this award—boy I worked so hard for it!”
He shares his joy with the entire MJ bakery team who supported him all the way.
So on your next visit to Paris, make sure you stop by to try the amazing baguette for yourselves.
Address: 13 Rue Pierre Demours, 75017 Paris
Opening hours: Every day (except Monday) 7am-8pm.