Maison Méert

Did the aroma of vanilla draw you here too? Right before you stands Maison Méert, a Lille institution since 1677. Its story began not with waffles, but with a confectioner named Delcourt. He established his shop at 27 rue Esquermoise, right where we stand now, in what’s now known as Vieux-Lille. Maison Méert has seen centuries unfold, witnessing Lille’s transformation. In 1773, Modo de Rollez took over, introducing ice cream to the menu. The elegant decor we see today, with its gilded accents and ornate ceilings, dates back to a renovation he commissioned in 1839. The architect Charles Benvignat, painter Charles Stalars, and sculptor Félix Huidiez all contributed to the shop’s opulent atmosphere. It was Michael Paulus Gislinus Meert who lent his name to the shop in 1849. The Cardon family continued the legacy in 1900, preserving the Méert name, synonymous with their famed waffles. In the heart of Maison Méert lies its claim to fame: the vanilla waffle. These aren’t your average waffles. They are cooked, sliced, then filled with a delectable blend of Madagascar vanilla and sugar. The recipe, a closely guarded secret, has remained unchanged for generations. Wrapped in gold paper, nestled in elegant boxes, these waffles are a Lille treasure. Today, Maison Méert offers a delightful range of treats, from chocolates to pastries and seasonal specialties called EphéméMert. They even have a museum in the basement, showcasing 5,000 artifacts, some dating back to the 17th century. Maison Méert isn’t just a shop. It’s a living testament to Lille’s rich culinary heritage. It’s a place where history and indulgence intertwine, offering a taste of the past and a promise of sweet delights. From Buffalo Bill to Charles de Gaulle, countless notable figures have savored the creations of Maison Méert. Even royalty, like King Leopold I of Belgium, couldn’t resist their charm.