On a rainy afternoon, after trekking from the Eiffel Tower to the Champs, we came upon Laduree. Laduree has 3 different restaurants in Paris. The one we came upon was on the Champs. It is a huge building with mint green awnings, and a palatial feel. We stepped inside, and immediately were overwhelmed by the delicious scent of croissant, pastry and macaroon. There was a glass case filled with beautiful, intricate cakes and pastries. While you can sit down for coffee and entrees, we decided to buy a few things and sit outside somewhere. The rain had stopped for a little while.
Bryana picked a rose-infused cake with chantilly and raspberry. Sarah picked a lavender macaroon and a rose macaroon. I picked pain au chocolat (a chocolate-filled croissant). And Renee picked a plain croissant and a few different flavors of macaroons (there are about 12).
We went outside, and almost died of sheer taste explosion. Every bite was savored, every crumb licked off fingers. Each was delicate, delicious and amazing. We went back several times during the week, and even brought home boxes of the macaroons to family and friends.