By Nicola Iseard, for CNNX

Original source: cnn.com

7. Goumanyat & Son Royaume

If you didn't already know that it takes 150,000 crocus flowers to make a kilo of saffron, you should after a visit to this spice emporium in a former Parisian apothecary shop.

Saffron has been the Thiercelin family's signature product for more than 200 years, and Monsieur Thiercelin, the shop's current owner, likes to reel off spice lore to customers whom he personally welcomes in once they have rung the bell.

Pierre Gagnaire and Helene Darroze, among other Michelin-starred Paris chefs, come here to stock up on spices.

Cooking classes are held on Saturday afternoons.

Goumanyat & Son Royaume (French site only), 3 Rue Charles-François Dupuis, 3rd arrondissement; +33(0) 144 789 674