The Meert shop in Lille: a gourmet institution

In the picturesque rue Esquermoise in Vieux-Lille, number 27 is home to a past full of anecdotes and history, which have made it famous beyond its borders. After being run by apothecaries for a confectionery business, it was in 1761 that Sieur Delcourt moved into this building, which is now one of the most emblematic in Lille.

In partnership with Modo de Rollez, a fabulous ice-cream maker with undeniable talent, the confectioner-chocolatier launched Lille's pastry revolution with his address, which quickly became THE spot for sweet expertise! Attracting more and more people, the house became a favourite spot for Lille's socialites. The Count of Lille even wrote about it in the "Feuille de Flandres", that "the lover sings to his mistress... As for me, I'm a gourmand and I sing Rollez".

With its Pompeian style, Orientalist touches and flamboyant decoration, this majestic place is the work of Rollez. Accompanied by some of the artists and an architect in his entourage, he let his style shine through in the singular paintings and sculptures from which the shop draws its cachet.

Before entering, take a moment to contemplate the façade, where the traditional brick of the neighbouring buildings is replaced by Lezennes stone. For almost 200 years, the ground floor has featured a marbled design, which harmoniously accompanies the gateway in shades of green and gold, as well as the display cabinets topped with copper mouldings. From the floor to the first floor, medallions take centre stage... the hallmark of Benvignat, the architect responsible for the design.

Like a museum, step inside to admire the details of the building's interior, from the boutique to the restaurant, without forgetting to look up for a few surprises that might be lurking on the ceilings...

• Address: 27 Rue Esquermoise, 59000 Lille
• Opening times: 2pm - 7pm Monday, 10am - 7pm Tuesday to Saturday, 9am - 7pm Sunday

The iconic Meert waffle, a favourite with tourists and the people of Lille who sit in the aisles of trains and planes returning from Lille, first appeared in the middle of the 19th century. Enriched by his travels in the Colonies, where vanilla plantations abounded, Monsieur Meert took over the candy business, adding his name to the reputation of the famous company.

In a flat waffle, baked between two of the brand's distinctive irons, a paste made from sugar, butter and Madagascan vanilla, the secrets of which are closely guarded, makes the reputation of this hand-made delicacy. Unchanged since its creation, the original recipe has been imitated by many other artisans, but the most loyal and passionate customers wouldn't change their habits for anything! More recently, variants with pistachio and Morello cherry, speculoos, chestnut, praline or citrus fruit have made their way onto the shop's shelves, alongside the vanilla.

For breakfast or a snack, the charming "Family tea " tea room has been bringing together the bourgeoisie of Lille since the beginning of the 20th century to enjoy refined flavours in a privileged atmosphere right in the heart of the old town. This new space has established an art of living that has been followed for generations by local regulars.

Sit down at tea time to savour THE waffle, or one of the succulent pastries creating an explosion of colour behind the window. Mont Blanc, flan, chocolate éclair, marvellous, lemon tartlet, etc. are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of Meert tea.

Opening times: noon - 7.00pm Tuesday to Friday, 10.00am - 7.00pm Saturday, 11.00am - 7.00pm Sunday

Going beyond the confines of the sweet world, Maison Meert opened its restaurant in 2008, to give pride of place to seasonal produce! In a chic, refined atmosphere, savoury delicacies are served up in salads, pasta, seafood, meat and fish, and the mastery of these dishes is just as impressive as that of the legendary waffle.

Lunch or dinner in one of Lille's landmarks with over 250 years of gastronomic adventure is a unique experience, making it one of the most coveted restaurants in a friendly city usually renowned for its beer and cheese dishes!

Opening times: noon - 2.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 11.00am - 2.00pm Sunday (brunch menu)