"A perfect macaron is light and delicately crisp on the outside, with a creamy, sometimes slightly chewy interior."
— Owen Dugan, Wine Spectator, 30 Apr. 2008
I can't quite recall the exact moment I had my first macaron, but it must have been a pretty epic experience because for the last few years I have become borderline obsessed with them. In fact, it was this fixation that sent me on a quest all over Miami to find the ne plus ultra of this delicious French treat. Today, I am going to share my top choices when it comes to these little blessings, but first, word of advice: macarons should always be bought fresh, and radioactive-looking colors should be avoided; otherwise you will not have the almost-religious experience you deserve.
La Provence Artisanal French Bakery and Café
Here you will be able to find only four flavors of macarons, which is usually a good sign when it comes to this specific treat. It means attention to detail. La Provence succeeds in covering all palates with its small selection; creme citron for those who like citric flavors, dulce de leche for the sugar addicts, chocolate for the traditional people, and feuilletine for those looking to discover their new favorite flavor.
Le Macaron
If you love walnuts and chocolate cake, then you definitely need to visit Le Macaron. The taste of the walnut macaron is 100 percent pure; that is, no almonds were mixed into the filling of the macaron. The Belgian chocolate macaron is like having a bite-size cake that is perfect for those that are on a diet. No, seriously! Each macaroon has 80 calories and they are also gluten-free. Nonetheless, this store is guilty of having twnety flavors, some in radioactive-looking colors.
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Janette & Co.
Janette & Co. is also guilty of having not only radioactive-looking colors, but also one too many flavors for my taste, pun intended. Nonetheless, this store also has a flavor that I have not been able to find anywhere else: Nutella. Here you will also be able to find a Venezuelan chocolate macaron that will make you wonder how you were able to live before you found out about it.
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Atelier Monnier
You might get lucky one day and bump into me at the Brickell location while I have a perfectly made hazelnut macaron. If you do come and say hi, maybe I'll buy you one too. You'll love the hazelnut macaron because its flavor is very similar to Nutella, but not as overwhelming. Also, a big plus for Atelier Monnier is that they stay true to the traditional colors, flavors, and size of Parisian macarons. I truly recommend you hit this location, and while you are there, pick up an individual-size carré crunchy.
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Café Bonjour French Bistro and Bakery
Has a doctor ever told you that awful phrase go to your happy place? Yeah, same! This establishment is my happy place. I love this place for more reasons than one: their steak frites, the fact that I get to practice my French here, and the box of 25 macarons that I never fail to take with me on my way out are just a few of them. This place is a wonderful mirage that is open Tuesdays through Saturday only, so go get your handmade macarons while you can. You can thank me later.
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