Desserts trends have come and gone over time: cupcakes, cronuts, you name it; but the macaron--sweet nut-based meringue cookies sandwiching a buttercream or ganache filling--is a French classic that (fingers crossed) is here to stay. It doesn’t have to be over-hyped or put on a pedestal, but a macaron done well is something worth applauding. This must be a common sentiment because March 20 has been designated as Macaron Day. First celebrated in 1995 by French macaron god, Pierre Hermé, it is now the international day of the year to appreciate the beauty of the perfectly crafted macaron. If you’re looking to do so here in Canada, these spots are worthy of a visit.
Ollia Macarons & Tea – Calgary
Ollia Macarons & Tea knows how to think outside the box. Don’t have a sweet tooth? The makers aren’t afraid of savoury pairings like blue cheese and pear, or black truffle and parmesan. If those seem a bit too crazy for you, they also have all the classics, like salted caramel and pistachio.
Yann Haute Patisserie – Calgary
This little yellow house just off of 4th Street may look quaint and cute, but don’t be fooled, Yann and his team bake up some seriously stellar macaron. His strength is definitely the unique flavour combinations he comes up with, often turning classic Canadian desserts in macarons. What kind of evil genius comes up with carrot cake or Nanaimo bar macaron? We’ll take it!
Soirette – Vancouver
Soirette’s macarons are dainty and timeless, but with a twist. It offers a selection of both classic and seasonal flavours, from its Vancouver Fog, a take on the London Fog, to its Cherry Blossom, which is perfect for spring. If you’re in the YVR area, you can even stop by for afternoon tea, with seatings offered at select times. A macaron of your choice is even included in the tasting!
Duchess Bake Shop – Edmonton
Edmontonians and visitors alike love Duchess Bake Shop for all of its sweet treats, especially its macarons. Seasonal flavours currently feature the likes of sour cherry poppy seed and chocolate banana (but not together, of course). They also have macaron cakes: giant macarons filled with buttercream, fruit, and more!
AG Macarons – Toronto
With two locations and over 50 flavours on its roster, AG Macarons is a hot spot to get your fix of these meringue-based treats. If that weren’t enough choice, you can even customize your macaron with airbrush patterns, or go for the wow-factor with a macaron tower.
Delysées – Toronto
When it come to macarons in a city like Toronto, Delysées is the place to be. You can buy them individually, or in boxes or 10, 20, or 80; and this is definitely an instance of “more is better.” Many of its macarons are hand-painted and are just as gorgeous to look at as they are tasty to eat. If you’re looking for its seasonal offering, rose is where it’s at!
Macarons et Madeleines – Ottawa
Macarons and madeleines are some of the most revered French patisserie options, so with a name like that, there’s a lot to live up to. Macarons and Madeleines is not letting Ottawa down with its ever-changing lineup, including the likes of speculoos buttercream, and matcha with candied chestnut. We’re getting a bit of a sugar high just thinking about it.
Maison Christian Faure – Montreal
You’ll find this gem nestled amongst the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, offering high-end pastries to all those in need of a little sugar. Its macarons may not be as outrageous as some of the more nouveaux spots, but it does the classics, and does them impeccably: lemon, passionfruit, pistachio, plus much more.
Le French Fix – Halifax
Maritimers rejoice! Le French Fix is the place to be if you’re in search of the perfect macaron. It understands that each “fix” is different, so it’s constantly updating its flavours with the seasons. For example, on rotation for St. Patrick’s day were both its Guinness and Bailey’s macarons.
