A proper (unrefined) sugar rush in the best possible sense! Tucked away on Rue des Couteliers, Saoko is a vibrant little jewel-box of a pastry shop dressed in pink brick. At the helm, Carlota Aparisi lets her imagination run riot, marrying exceptional ingredients with striking, theatrical ideas. The day we dropped in, the counter was a thing of beauty: a sculptural chocolate cube cake concealing blood orange jelly, dark chocolate mousse, almond biscuit and a floral rosemary cream; a playful, runny, egg-like creation perched on a crispy kadaif nest, with a pinch of curry, almond sponge and pineapple compote; a velvety smooth pistachio cheesecake; and a downright sinful ice-cream sandwich – two crunchy biscuits hugging a frozen pistachio cream with a pistachio caramel core. Between bites, sip caffeinated nectars crafted by barista Brian Jouannic using Minifundi beans, a comforting house chai latte or a pleasantly surprising strawberry and cucumber koso (Japanese fermented syrup). And when the weekend comes, hit the sweet and savory brunch (€25-30). · Marie Delcampo

THE HIDDEN GEM: The cheesecake cookie, with its crisp base and gloriously creamy center (€3.80).