I've never cared for Valentine's Day as a so-called holiday, but I do love all the sweets that have become associated with it. My favorite this year: Dominique Ansel's Cupid Religieuse. The French pastry chef went all out this February 14th, filling up his cases with pink versions of the bakery's best-selling treats.
I stumbled across a video of Ansel at work and his whimsical approach to the timeless French pastry makes me appreciate his bakery even more. I've been a huge fan of the charming SoHo spot since I stopped by for the first time last June (late to the game, I know) and had the made-to-order madeleines. It takes five minutes to prepare, but the piping hot mini cakes are well worth the wait.
Dominique Ansel Bakery, 189 Spring St. between Sullivan and Thompson Sts. (212) 219-2773