These tiny French cookies have become somewhat of a guilty pleasure at my house ever since I introduced them to the family during the holidays. So when a friend gave us this box from Macaron Cafe, everyone was excited to dig in. They're not the best we've had — a tad too chewy and light on flavor — and my favorite remains the Earl Grey from Macaron Parlour. (the boyfriend, on the other hand, still craves the Cherry Cordial from Dana's Bakery, a Valentine's Day special that's sadly no longer available.)
Of course, most people turn to the king of macarons — Ladurée — for their fix, but there's something about buying from and getting to know Christina and Simon (the adorable couple behind Macaron Parlour), and Dana (a photo editor-turned-baker), that makes their not-so-typical macs extra addictive.
Macaron Cafe, 625 Madison Ave. at E. 58th St. (212) 486-2470.