Le Pain du Lapin, Rio de Janeiro

Mouthwatering cakes and pastries, delicious breads and irresistible sweet treats are the order of the day at Le Pain du Lapin. This little store/coffee shop brings the talents of Zelmar Riccetto to Jardim Botanico, after the talented pastry chef enjoyed success at the Hotel Meridien and upscale restaurant chain Garcia & Rodrigues. Riccetto trained in France, and the country's culinary influence stands out in his sweet and savory croissants and crème-filled pastries, made with flour imported straight from France. Those without the sweet tooth will find plenty to enthuse about in the freshly-baked ciabatta and focaccia breads. - Lucy Bryson