Discussion with a passionate pastry chef for whom every creation is an emotion.
Can you tell us about the origins of this project and what attracted you to this collaboration with Coutume?
I wanted to create a place that reflects my vision of contemporary pastry: accessible, gourmet and creative, while remaining demanding in terms of the quality of the ingredients. When the opportunity to partner with Coutume arose, it was an obvious choice. Their expertise in speciality coffee perfectly complements my world: two areas of expertise coming together to offer a new and coherent experience, both in the cup and on the plate.
Coutume is renowned for its expertise in specialty coffee. How did you work with Tom Clark, the founder of Coutume, to create pastries that complement his coffees?
Tom and I had many discussions about the aromatic profiles of his coffees. We sought to create subtle pairings: some pastries enhance the chocolatey, roasted or spicy notes of the coffee, while others provide contrast with their freshness, acidity or lightness. The idea was to create a real dialogue of flavours, where coffee and pastries complement each other.
When coffee
inspires
pastries
The menu features exclusive creations. Can you tell us more about L’Orchidée and L’Origine?
L’Orchidée is a tribute to floral elegance: a delicate creation that combines vanilla with a subtle touch of coffee. I wanted a pastry that was refined, poetic and indulgent.
L’Origine, on the other hand, returns to simplicity and indulgence: a creation based on chocolate, peanuts and caramel.
You also offer a patisserie drink whose flavour changes with the passing seasons. How do you approach this seasonality in your creations?
It allows us to constantly surprise, to renew the experience and to remain in harmony with nature. Each season brings a different palette: red berries in summer, citrus fruits in winter, nuts in autumn… This pastry drink is designed as a liquid dessert, a gourmet creation that adapts to the rhythm of the seasons and my current desires.
The corner store is located under the Galeries Lafayette dome. How did you and Coutume imagine the experience for customers who come to enjoy coffee and pastries in this unique setting?
La Coupole (the dome) is a magical place, steeped in history and emotion. With Coutume, we wanted to create a haven within this Parisian monument: a tasting space that is both modern and welcoming, where people can take their time. The experience is not limited to coffee or pastries: it is a moment of pleasure, contemplation and sharing, enhanced by the exceptional architecture that surrounds us.
What do you think makes the difference between a good pastry and an exceptional pastry?
A good pastry is enjoyed and gives pleasure. An exceptional pastry goes beyond that: it tells a story, awakens an emotion, leaves a lasting impression. Technical skill is of course essential, but what really makes the difference is its ability to create a memory.
You have worked in some of the finest establishments and have a contemporary and artistic vision of pastry-making. How would you describe your signature or style in pastry-making?
I would say that my signature lies in the balance between rigour and creativity.
I like clean lines and architectural volumes, but always with taste in mind. I seek to create emotions through combinations that are sometimes daring, but always intelligible and delicious.
For me, pastry is an artistic language, a way of conveying stories and sensations, at the crossroads of art, design and gastronomy.
Coutume for Coffee Lovers
Enjoy an exclusive experience: ‘François Daubinet at Coutume’ The new café-patisserie concept, with a breathtaking view of the dome.
📍 Coupole Store – 2nd floor
40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 PARIS
