Enjoy the "tarte aux pralines" of Lyon in Lyon

Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, is known for its rich culinary heritage. From traditional Lyonnais dishes to mouthwatering pastries, the city offers a delightful experience for food lovers. One such treat that you must try when visiting Lyon is the famous "tarte aux pralines."

The Pink Praline Mystery

Pralines are a popular sweet treat found across France, but Lyon's pralines stand out with their vibrant pink color. The story behind the pink pralines remains a bit of a mystery. Legend has it that in the 18th century, a pastry chef in Lyon was inspired by the rose gardens in the Rhône region and tinted his pralines in a similar pink shade using a copper-mixing machine. This unique touch became a hit with customers, and thus, the rose-colored praline tart was born.

A Delightful Dessert

The tarte aux pralines is a true indulgence for your taste buds. Nearly all bouchons, traditional Lyonnais restaurants, serve this delectable dessert. The tart features a creamy filling made by crushing and cooking the pralines with cream. The result is a sweet and gooey filling with a nutty crunchiness that will leave you craving for more. The elegant red color of the cream garnish and the pretty pink pralines make this dessert a feast for the eyes as well.

Beyond the Tart

While the tarte aux pralines is the star of the show, Lyon offers other praline-inspired specialties that are worth exploring. One such treat is the brioche aux pralines, made famous by baker Auguste Pralus in 1955, known as the "Praluline." This buttery brioche is filled with rose pralines, creating a delightful combination of flavors. You can also find praline cake, biscotti, meringue, ice cream, and even praline chocolate mousse in Lyon.

Where to Indulge

When in Lyon, there are a few places you must visit to savor the best tarte aux pralines and other praline delights. Pralus, a renowned chocolatier, offers the famous Praluline, a buttery brioche filled with rose pralines. Boulangerie du Palais is another must-visit spot, known for its brioches aux pralines. This popular bakery often has a queue spilling out onto the cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon, so make sure to arrive early. Boulangerie Jocteur is also famous for its tarte aux pralines and is a great place to enjoy a slice of this delectable dessert.

When to Visit

Lyon is a city that can be enjoyed year-round, but if you specifically want to indulge in the tarte aux pralines, any time is a good time. Whether you visit during the warm summer months or the festive holiday season, you can always find this delightful treat in Lyon's bakeries and restaurants.

Conclusion

The tarte aux pralines is a Lyon specialty that should not be missed. With its unique pink pralines and irresistible flavors, this dessert is a true delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. So, when you find yourself in Lyon, make sure to indulge in this sweet treat and experience the culinary wonders of the city.