Méert

The magnificent golden façade you are about to pass is that of Méert. Much more than just a pastry shop, this lillois institution is one of the oldest pastry shops still in operation in the world. The shop and façade have been listed since 1980. It all began in 1761, Monsieur Delcours, a chocolate maker, set up his shop in rue Esquermoise. It is believed that the chosen address had been a confectioner’s since 1661! Following him will be Monsieur Modo de Rollez, establishing the shop as an essential destination for confectionery enthusiasts with his famous ice creams. It was thanks to him and his surrounding artist friends, that the shop got the inimitable style we know today. Architect Charles Benvignat, Painter Charles Stalars and Sculptor Felix Huidiez are responsible for the incredible oriental décor with its extravagant style.The name on the sign, Méert arrived in 1849, with the acquisition of the shop by a Belgian businessman: Michael Paulus Giislenus Méert by his full name. Méert had just spend five years in the colonies, where he learned all the secrets of cocoa, sugar cane, vanilla and coffee plantations. He is the creator of the mysterious waffle filled with Madagascar vanilla, which made the place a success and gave it an enduring brand name. The place has attracted many celebrities throughout its history. From Buffalo Bill to Marguerite Yourcenar, Winston Churchill and Jackie Kennedy, and more recently Dany Boon, Améie Nothomb and Alain Souchon, to name but a few. Charles de Gaulle was so fond of Méert waffles that he had them delivered to the Élysée Palace! Now if you like it’s your turn, enter this legendary shop and taste its specialities under magnificent carved ceilings.