Macarons at Laduree in Paris

I did some research just before my trip to Europe and I was searching where I could get hold of some delectable and melt-in-the-mouth macarons in Paris. French macarons is afterall, the most sought after confectionery novelty in France just like foie gras.

A macaron is a sweet confectionery which is meringue based. Its name is derived from an Italian word "maccarone" or "maccherone". This word is itself derived from ammaccare, meaning crush or beat, used here in reference to the almond paste which is the principal ingredient. Macarons only need four ingredients - egg whites, ground almonds, powdered sugar and granulated sugar. And the fillings can be anything you like ie. ganache, buttercream, fruit fillings and etc.

In Paris, the French pâtisserie Laduree is reputed for making quality macarons in traditional and new flavors. Other reputed French patisseries on Macarons includes Pierre Hermé and Fauchon.

The tres chic giftboxes for Macarons @ Laduree

After a search, I found that I need to visit one of the Laduree outlets in 75 Avenue des Champs Elysées which house the bakery section, a restaurant and a bar. When I first stepped into the shop, I can't help but feel an air of classiness and exclusivity about the shop. It was dark with dimmed lighting, there was already a queue for the delicatessen counter, the restaurant is upstairs where you can have a meal or breakfast and there's also a bar just behind the delicatessen counter.

Besides that, you can definitely sniff the Parisian attitude. We were served by an Asian girl because some of them couldn't possibly speak English (or I supposed they prefer not to). What's wrong with these French people? Don't they know that customer is king? But I suppose it's the other way round when you're in France. They are just snobs of the highest order.

It makes me wonder why are we still so crazy over buying LV's and Chanel's when they treat us like sh*t. They don't give a f*ck to the Asian customers. Sorry for my obscenity and profanity but there seemed to be no other vocabulary I can find in my limited mind dictionary to replace that word. I am to be blamed partly for being in the foie gras frenzy and not forgetting the uncountable French champagne and wines that I have shamelessly sipped all these years. BUT... I am proud to proclaim that I have yet to own a LV nor Chanel.

Well, I am not generalising that every French is like that but some of them whom I knew are quite nice and friendly. I have also made friends with one of the staff at the Tax free department and we have been keeping in touch through emails.

The palette of colours is just stunningly beautiful..

Ok, sorry for going off the tracks talking about the French and not the macarons. Oh well, I have heard of the raving reviews of why one should have a go at the macarons at Laduree when in Paris and thus I have to go there for myself to test it out. The proof of the pudding is in the eating and thus I am prepared to pay whatever amount to get my hands on some macarons!

Found a flavour you like?

If I'm not wrong the price range from €13 to €20 euros for a box of 9 - 12pcs depending on the giftbox of your choice. Since I am not giving it out as a gift, I took the normal box and paid about €14 for a box of 12 petit macarons. The bigger macarons are sold for €3 each.

I came out satisfied like I have just accomplished a mission...

Once I reached the hotel room, I couldn't wait but to pop one into my mouth. I chose the pistachio one as my first choice. Well, it was tacky, a little chewy and crunchy, tasted like a fine macaron to me! It gets soften very fast and it's easy to crack due to the delicate texture. I do like how it melts on my palate like how a fine piece of chocolate should be. The filling does compliments the macarons very well. There is not a single piece that I do not like from my box but then again, it didn't appeal to me like it was a prized confection that was out of this world. They still tasted a little too sweet for my liking.

My box of precious petite macarons...

I brought some back for my friends to try and they loved it too. It's one of the better ones that they have tried despite the burgeoning of macaron outlets here in KL. However, I think I would still stick to croissants as one of my most sought after delicacy in the snobbish country.

It wasn't cheap but I guess nothing is too expensive when you consider how much you would have lost out considering your airfare to just go there and not try the things that you should! I would even pay €5 for a petite macaron if I have to just to get a taste of it! Just too bad I can't buy a tasting portion of Chateau Petrus 1985.

Championing the Arc de Triomphe.

And that's how you feel after a satisfying one of the must-try list I have when in Paris.

Ladurée Champs-Elysées

75 Avenue des Champs Elysées Paris 8ème
Tel. : + 33 1 40 75 08 75
Metro: Station Georges V
Open Daily
www.laduree.fr