On my last day in Paris during my most recent visit in April 2015, I paid a very last-minute and quick visit to the Ladurée salon on the Champs-Élysées. This salon opens from 7:30-23:00, Mondays-Fridays, and until midnight on Saturdays (until 22:00 on Sundays).
I only had time to buy one macaron and I decided to try the Thé Marie-Antoinette for a uniquely Ladurée macaron (versus a common one, such as my usual favourite, rose).
The Tea
Ladurée Thé Marie-Antoinette
I purchased a box at the airport as it is duty-free (but only saved me 50 cents I believe).
‘A delicious marriage of Chinese and Indian [and Sri Lankan] black teas combined with rose petals, citrus fruit, and honey.’
Also contains: pieces of orange and pineapple, and aromas of orange, honey, lemon, lime, mandarin, and grapefruit.
Available in:
- a powder pink cylinder box as loose leaf (125g) – 14€
- a powder pink cylinder box with 20 teabags (45g) – 11,80€
- tea-infused jelly (240g) – 9,70€
- tea-infused macaron – 2€
I really enjoy this tea. It is not a heavy black tea and I can usually make at least 4 cups before the flavour begins to fade.
The Macaron
Ladurée Thé Marie-Antoinette macaron
A duck egg blue macaron with a brown middle. It tastes very much like rose tea.
Which macarons are the best?
Ladurée vs Pierre Hermé
As I only sampled one from Ladurée and two from Pierre Hermé (2,10€ each), I simply am not an expert on macarons. I found the macarons from both pastry boutiques to be equally delectable. Nevertheless, everyone who has sampled macarons from Ladurée and Pierre Hermé have unanimously agreed that PH makes the best macarons. 🙂
PH macarons & macaron with four leaf clover from the Jardin des Près
P.S. I’ve tried McCafe’s macarons and they are not worth it, in my opinion. You get what you pay for, I suppose, for just over 1€!
P.P.S. This is the city where you can find delicious baby macarons like this one:
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The Lady and the Rose 
I wonder if Ladurée’s would have tasted better if Pierre had stayed with them. Either way, I am inclined to agree with you –though I’ve yet to taste either myself– that they are both equally scrumptious. I am definitely living vicariously through you, these last few posts!
Good question! It does make you wonder. I suppose now we have variety. PH’s macarons were more unique, in terms of flavours and decorations. I hope you’ll get a chance to try macarons from both patisseries someday! Aren’t you planning to visit Paris soon?