Our first French sweet, a beautifully wrapped single Pierre Hermé foie gras & chocolate macaron, was enjoyed huddled together in the doorway of an old building whilst the heavens opened. Quite romantic really.
The Pierre Hermé shop is akin to a design store- smartly dressed staff in suits and modern, minimalist fittings. No flinging of macarons into paper bags here, rather your precious purchase is rested on a slide of cardboard, wrapped in a cellophane bag and adorned with a Pierre Hermé napkin and brochure. The staff even come out behind the counter and present your purchase to you.
It is impossible to choose a flavour. We’re talking flavours like pistachio, ceylon cinnamon and morello cherries or vanillas from Tahiti, Mexico and Madagascar. But ultimately the tempting combination of foie gras and chocolate won out.
The brilliant raspberry hued shell was crisp and smooth. The luxurious inner was velvety and rich. The chocolate was dense and the perfect sweetness whilst the savoury foie gras was decadent and creamy.
Certainly the best macaron I’ve ever had. All hail The Picasso of Pastry.
Good to know:
Macaron €2.50
Pierre Hermé
18 rue Sainte-Croix-de-la-Bretonnerie
75004 Paris
7 days 10:00am to 8:00pm
Numerous boutiques dotted around Paris. Check the website for details.
http://www.pierreherme.com/
Images: Thomas Southam
