The vanilla waffle from Maison Méert in Lille: a legendary treat with the aromas of Madagascar

People from Lille know it well—it’s indulgent, it’s unique, it embodies a certain idea of luxury yet remains accessible: the vanilla waffle from Maison Méert (pronounced ‘Mare’). It’s a treat for yourself, but it would also make a perfect gift for friends who appreciate the finer things. 

 

A culinary heritage dating back to 1849

Since 1849, Maison Méert, once a confectionery founded in 1761, has delighted Lille and the world with its famous vanilla-filled waffle, born from the imagination of Michael Paulus Gislenus Méert. At that time, drawing on his experience in vanilla, cocoa, and coffee plantations in the colonies, he brought a touch of exoticism to Lille’s pastry scene by creating this unique treat.

As soon as it comes out of the waffle iron, this oval brioche waffle is sliced in half to hold a generous filling: butter, sugar, and most importantly, Madagascar vanilla. The vanilla adds its rich, velvety aroma, making the Méert waffle a true icon of indulgence.

 

Premium, Locally Sourced Ingredients

Méert doesn’t just rely on exotic flair: every ingredient is chosen with the utmost care. The flour comes from the nearby Waast Mills, while the sugar is made from northern beets. The butter is fresh and from Normandy. But it’s the finishing touch—the Madagascar vanilla—that elevates the whole, thanks to its intense and velvety aroma.

Madagascar vanilla, the Vanilla planifolia or "Bourbon" variety, is now the most sought-after in the world: it accounts for nearly 80% of global production, prized for its aromatic richness achieved through a long natural fermentation process. Méert is not just choosing a flavor, but a prestigious terroir.

 

An unchanged recipe, a stellar reputation

For over 170 years, the recipe has remained secret and true to the original. It’s based on a delicate brioche dough, shaped in a traditional iron, hand-cut, and then generously filled with a rich blend of Madagascar vanilla beans  .

The authenticity of this sweet treat has earned it countless distinctions: a clientele of crowned heads, Marguerite Yourcenar, De Gaulle, and even European royal families.

 

How are these waffles prepared?

According to Maison Méert, the waffle is baked in an engraved mold, then cut out with a cookie cutter after baking, before being filled by hand.

A detailed recipe (published by Le Bonbon or AD Magazine) reveals its ingredients:

• Dough: 1 kg flour, salt, 150 g sugar, 8 eggs, 50 g yeast, milk, 500 g butter.

• Filling: 1 kg sugar, 500 g butter, 1 Madagascar vanilla bean  .

The pod is split and scraped: its seeds are incorporated into the mixture, releasing their full aromatic power on the palate.

 

A subtle tasting experience

These waffles offer a unique experience:

• Texture: thin and slightly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.

• Taste: an intense marriage of fresh butter, Northern sugar, and Madagascar’s euphoric vanilla—deep and smooth.

Packaging, storage, and formats

Packed in boxes of 6 or 12, Méert waffles stay fresh for up to 10 days. The “classic” version is available in stores in Lille, Roubaix, Paris… and online, shipped with fresh or standard delivery.

• Box of 6: ~€19; box of 12: ~€30.

• Seasonal limited editions (lemon/citrus, raspberry, pistachio…) are available, but vanilla remains Maison Méert’s signature flavor.

 

Madagascar Vanilla: The Soul of Méert Waffles

Choosing Madagascar vanilla beans is far from trivial: renowned for their rich aroma, with floral, sweet, and woody notes, they offer a delicate yet powerful profile, perfectly suited for a short, intense treat.

 

Méert, a must-visit!

Méert isn’t just a brand: it’s a historic landmark (listed since 1980), a place of memory and creativity, a tea room, a fine-dining restaurant, and even a museum in the basement.

Visiting Lille means making a must-stop at Méert: savor a waffle, walk in the footsteps of Buffalo Bill, Winston Churchill, Jackie Kennedy, or marvel at the flamboyant ornamental décor. We recommend stopping by for a cup of tea in the lounge set up for this purpose under a majestic glass roof at the back of the shop.

 

In conclusion

The Maison Méert vanilla waffle is no ordinary pastry. It’s the product of a rich history, heritage, and unique expertise, as well as a careful selection of premium ingredients—including Madagascar vanilla beans—making it a rare sensory experience.

In Lille, or through their online shop, it’s a delicious journey through time and excellence. Every bite is a tribute to over 170 years of tradition, generosity, and passion for a pastry that has become legendary.