Founded in 1862, Ladurée gained exposure with the film Marie-Antoinette which featured elegant meals prepared in the restaurant itself. Known mainly as a pastry shop, the specialty here is the macaroon. These come in every imaginable flavour, from the classics (chocolate, vanilla, coffee, praline, rose, and pistachio) to the inventive (salted caramel, red berry, orange flower, and Java pepper) and seasonal flavours such as coconut, lime basil, iced mint, violet, chestnut, and liquorice.
The best presentation, however, is saved for their cakes with beautifully decorated boxes and luxurious named such as "Bonaparte" or "Cristal." The first Ladurée opened in Geneva, but it was in France that the chain really took off, offering four different stores (Royale, Champs Elysées, Bonaparte, Printemps).
Ladurée has also opened a London store in Knightsbridge. Each boutique welcomes customers wishing to enjoy the colourful confections on site in a lovely tea room. Small, light dishes are also proposed, expertly blending savoury and sweet and served in the most elegant of styles. Beautiful and delicious delicacies fit for a queen.