Paillard operates as a high-volume bakery and café that specializes in traditional French artisanal techniques. The menu features an extensive selection of crusty baguettes, flaky croissants, and buttery pastries baked on-site throughout the day. Substantial sandwiches are crafted using house-made breads, frequently paired with hearty soups and crisp salads. The interior design emphasizes an industrial-chic aesthetic with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and long communal tables designed for efficiency and rapid throughput. Guests order at a central counter where glass cases display an array of colorful macarons, tarts, and dense chocolate desserts. This establishment prioritizes the rapid production of quality wheat-based products within a bustling and utilitarian setting. It remains a central destination for those seeking authentic European-style baked goods served in a streamlined, self-service environment.
Paillard is widely recognized as a popular destination in Old Quebec for its extensive variety of fresh baked goods, including highly praised croissants, sandwiches, and assorted pastries. Many visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere, the ample seating, and the consistent quality of the food, making it a frequent stop for breakfast and lunch. While the bakery receives significant acclaim for its flavorful offerings and convenient location, opinions on the coffee and service are mixed. Some customers highlight friendly and efficient interactions, while others report occasional challenges with long wait times, busy crowds, and varying levels of staff attentiveness. Despite some concerns regarding pricing and service consistency, many guests consider the establishment an essential stop for anyone seeking an authentic bakery experience in the city.
This morning, I only bought two breads to take out, but I was charged almost $30. I'm pretty sure the cashier charged me twice. This is unacceptable. I can't believe this happened. I would like a refund.
Great sandwiches with quality bread, but the Kinder latte was too sweet & did not mix well with the espresso. Still a great visit overall & I regret not trying the pastries
Jun 24, 2026
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Our hotel concierge recommended Paillard to us.
We loved it & ended up going a few times during our visit. We tried their chocolate Suisse, chocolate braid, praline rolls, focaccia bread, macarons, butter croissant, chocolate croissant & coffee.
Everything except the coffee was yummy. I'd hop over to Smith Mason down the lane for coffee instead. But other than that, we loved everything. All their baked goods were freshly made.
Stopped in for lunch & was pleasantly surprised. The sandwiches were fresh, flavorful, & made with excellent bread. Everything tasted high quality & the portions were generous.
The pastries & drinks were also great, making it an easy spot for both a quick meal & something sweet afterward. The bakery selection looked amazing, & it's hard to leave without grabbing a treat.
Overall, good food, good value, & a nice atmosphere. Definitely worth a stop if you're walking around Old Quebec & looking for a satisfying lunch.
Paillard is a MUST if you love French pastries or any French food for that matter! The cases are a stream of breads, cookies, croissants, rolls, macaroons, sandwhiches, quiche & the list goes on!
I heard about this place so of course I went in. It's hard to pick as each item looks better than the last.
Sticking with the basics though, croissant, almond filled croissant & a hazelnut roll. Oh my gosh. The almond filling was amazing. Like a marzipan but lighter & more almond flavor. Generously filled into a sliced croissant.
The hazelnut roll;similiar to a cinnamon roll but an elevated taste with real hazelnut paste.
Basically everything in that bakery is top drawer as they are using pure ingredients. Definitely stop in & try anything. No disappointments only regrets that you eat more!
We went late afternoon & got the very last croissant! It was so buttery & flaky & I wish there was a second or 3rd piece for me! 😁 We also had the olive bread, & it was soft & chewy. We enjoyed every bite of it!
We went to Paillard - Rue Saint Jean for teatime. This French- style artisan bakery & pastry shop is popularly known for their handcrafted bread & pastries. They have a selection of freshly baked pastries like Croissants, Croc Framboise, Chocolate Twist, Muffins, Galette Granola, Lemon Cake, Brioche, Cinnamon Rolls, Cranberry Loaves, Olive Batard, Baguette, Lemon Tartlets, Macaroons (various flavours), Quiche, Sandwiches, Sweet Desserts, Juices & Hot Beverages just to name a few. We ordered some pastries & they tasted buttery, flaky & full of deliciousness. We love the ambience & the whimsical bunnies decorations for Easter added a pleasant atmosphere. This Paillard bakery is highly rated by visitors for its high quality products & friendly service.
The croissant breakfast was delicious with crisp, buttery pastries served warm. While the food quality was good, the service experience was less ideal. Staff seemed impatient when explaining the bread selection process to non-French speakers, making ordering slightly stressful.
