Ladurée

Ladurée opened its doors to the quilted leather streets of UES with much buzz and fanfare just over a week ago and yesterday, my friend Erynn and I went to go check out the goods.

And damn were they good.

It’s been raining something crazy this week, but that didn’t deter us in the least. Reading all the foodie blogs was getting me pretty excited about this new Big Deal Macaron Shop, not because I love macarons — I mean, I love them, but I don’t love them — but because everyone kept talking so highly about it and hyping it up. A friend of mine went opening week and waited over an hour in line.

Yeah.

When people get like that about food, it’s contagious to me. It ignites my curiosity and I need to see what all the commotion is about. I feed the beast; I can’t help myself.

Beautiful, no?

When we arrived, fortuitously, the line was not out the door. That was pretty exciting news for us as waiting outside in the rain would have been a major damper (ha!). We still ended up waiting around 20 minutes to order, but I don’t think that’s that bad.

I made it out with a small box of six: Caramel (3), Rose Petal, Orange Blossom, Strawberry & Mint for 20 bones.

I know, kind of a steep price for little cookie-cakes, but I’ve come to conclude that while the UES is not particularly a haven for gastronomical delights, it absolutely kills in the Rich People Pastries department.

The Rose Petal one is missing because I couldn't wait to try it.

This probably goes without saying, but the macarons were amazing. I ate the Rose Petal flavor first and it was impressive how strong and full the rose flavor was and how long it lingered.

From front to back: Caramel (3), Orange Blossom, Strawberry & Mint

I don’t know if it’s showing in the photos, but the edges were a bit crispy while the centers were gently soft. That little detail of texture elevated the whole thing to Phenomenal for me.

Put it in your mouth.

Long story short: you want to go to there.

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Ladurée
864 Madison Avenue
New York, 10021