Every two years, we spend Christmas with our family in the north of France.
It’s hard not to look forward to this as my wife’s aunt and uncle are amazing cooks.
Beyond the fantastic seafood, fresh farm produce, Christmas log cakes, and authentic French fries, ironically, one of my favourite parts of the stay is the daily family breakfast.
With the sunlight piercing the windows of the French country-style kitchen, and everyone crowded around the island table with their teas and coffees, I always look out for the packet of waffles among the freshly baked viennoiseries, baguettes and chouquettes (puffs).
You’ll only find this specific brand of waffles in grocery stores in the Nord Pas de Calais region in France.
The region is also home to the beautiful Somme River and its picturesque hills, barges and adorable fishing boats.
Founded in 1962 by Monsieur Lucien Bourdon in Blendecques, the creator of these delightful waffles was a baker just like his grandfather.
Monsieur Bourdon first learnt how to make waffles in a pattiserie (pastry shop) in Audomarois before acquiring a dough mixer and a dozen waffle makers.
When demand quickly outstrip production capacity in 2001, he moved his atelier to Helfaut.
The biscuiterie hires around 30 employees today, with a number of them having spent more than three decades in the waffle establishment!
What we really love is how the family continues to run the business and remains true to its traditional recipes.
kayafrenchtoast’s pick
Their gaufres artisanales (artisanal waffles) are not overly sweet, deceptively light, and you can taste the quality of the butter and other raw ingredients.
If you look at the ingredient list, all you see is flour, sugar, butter, fresh eggs, milk and salt.
That’s it.
No weird chemical additives and unpronounceable chemicals.
Your grandma won’t judge you for indulging in these gaufres. The price is also really reasonable for its quality.
The family’s commitment to tradition and quality speaks for itself – both in its taste (and short expiry date)!
Prix et Coordonnées
Biscuiterie Bourdon Patis’Nord
ZA de la Fontaine Colette, 62570 Helfaut
Also found in most grocery stores in the Nord Pas de Calais region.
8 packets of 2 small waffles for around 6 euros.
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