Candlemas, celebrated every year on February 2nd, is the perfect time to enjoy traditional Breton crêpes and galettes. But where does this wonderful culinary tradition come from?
The origins of Candlemas date back to the 5th century. Pope Gelasius I offered galettes to pilgrims during torchlight processions for the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, a custom that evolved into a celebration dedicated to sweet crêpes and savory galettes. Today, Candlemas is an unmissable moment to indulge your taste buds with delicious buckwheat galettes, wheat galettes, or wheat flour crêpes filled with salted butter caramel, grated cheese, or even sausage.
To celebrate Candlemas, we’ve selected the best crêperies near the Moderniste Hotel, where you can taste the finest crêpes filled with tomatoes, leeks, sausages, or desserts made with vanilla or compote. Here are the must-visit addresses:
La Galetterie
Just a few steps from the hotel, La Galetterie offers buckwheat galettes (also called Breton galettes) made with buckwheat flour. Treat yourself to galettes filled with egg, ham and cheese, or more creative recipes, all accompanied by delicious artisanal cider. For dessert, the sweet crêpes, drizzled with salted butter caramel or vanilla sugar, will delight your taste buds.
72 Rue Olivier de Serres, 75015 Paris
Ty Fanch
In the small square behind the Moderniste Hotel, Ty Fanch offers a genuine Breton experience with its buckwheat galettes, served with indulgent fillings like fresh cheese, goat cheese, or sausages. All of this is paired with a traditional bowl of cider, perfect for fully embracing the Breton tradition.
Pl. Henri Rollet, 75015 Paris
Breizh Café Charles Michel
A must-visit for fans of Breton crêpes. The wheat crêpes are filled with fresh, high-quality ingredients: grated cheese, salted butter caramel, and even flamed rum. Breizh Café also offers buckwheat galettes with caramelized onions, smoked salmon, or bacon. The warm atmosphere and original menu will transport you straight to Upper Brittany.
Place Charles Michel, 75015 Paris
Why choose a Breton crêperie to celebrate Candlemas? Candlemas is primarily the celebration of savory crêpes and sweet galettes. It’s the perfect time to enjoy hearty crêpes filled with grated cheese, sausage, or melted leeks, or to savor galettes with caramel and vanilla sugar. The Breton crêpe is a versatile dish that can be filled with everything from the most classic to the most original toppings. You can add raspberries, chocolate, almonds, or hazelnuts for a delightful touch.
Some tips for making perfect homemade crêpes: Choose high-quality flours, such as buckwheat flour for galettes and wheat flour for sweet crêpes. Let the crêpe batter rest in a bowl for about 30 minutes to avoid lumps and get soft crêpes. Heat your crêpe pan before pouring in the batter for the galettes. Be sure to flip your crêpes gently to avoid making them too crispy or dry. Whether you prefer a galette saucisse, a sweet crêpe with salted butter caramel, or a savory crêpe with grated cheese and leeks, Candlemas is the perfect time to enjoy traditional dishes while experimenting with new and original recipes. Pair your crêpes with a bowl of cider, and you’ll have the perfect recipe for a successful day!
Ready to celebrate Candlemas with homemade crêpes or by discovering the best crêperies in the capital? Don’t hesitate to share your sweet crêpe recipes and savory galettes with the team at the Moderniste Hotel and fully embrace this gourmet day!
Photo ©M Draa - Unsplash