Sharing Paris with visiting friends means sampling local delicacies. After foie gras, wine and fresh croissants, it was time to try a few macaroons. With so many pastries and flavors to choose from, it's almost impossible to argue which is better than all the others. Sure some are always going to shine high above the others, but simply because they attract tourists and locals by storm, does not mean they are the best. At least, I've always been someone to be skeptical of mass hype. But showing Paris to first-time visitors was a chance for me to compare some of France's most preferred macaroons. Ladurée and Pierre Hermé all made their way to my palate. But I was surprised and delighted to discover that Angelina is not just great with their hot chocolate.

 

Their macaroons have the perfect balance of cookie and filling, sweetness and flavor, texture and freshness. Plus, they are a convenient addition to a picnic.

Angelina is one of the most famous tea room of Paris and its reputation is not made without merit! One could even argue that it is a monument of Parisian gastronomy. Here, forget the tea at once, you must at all costs taste their chocolate named "l'africain" (the African): thick, tasty and always accompanied by its Chantilly, no one can resist. This chocolate is devilishly delicious! A romantic setting, paintings on the walls, moldings, chandeliers...Cakes to lose your head. Enough to blow the good resolutions of diet of all women! But luckily, this friendly and gourmet room is located opposite Tuileries Gardens, at the Louvre, where you can take a nice walk to digest it all.

Indeed, here you will be attentive to detail implemented! Buns so cute, dishes scratched Angelina, marble table...

"Voulez-vous un dessert?" No need to ask, for sure we do! The other house specialty is the "Mont-Blanc". You will be captivated and understand what the verb "savor" really means. However, this dessert is pretty consistent and it's not sure that despite its small size, you manage to finish it.

 

Unfortunately, the tea room is fairly dark even during the sunshine period. It's a shame. Another bad point: the downstairs room is noisy, too large and a bit ugly I think. The stage is much more cozy and nice. There are always a few people on Saturday, but do not be afraid, it's big inside and there will be room for you! Finally, the bill is certainly a little bit salty but the setting is wonderful and there is a wide range of pastries.

Definitely a must-see!