Boule Atelier

This most precious of patissiers has won the acclaim of Oprah (“The finest handmade caramels I’ve ever tasted,” she says), but remains a humble purveyor of sweet delights with the charm of a Parisian sidewalk café.  Painted robin’s egg blue with – what else? – chocolate accents, the shop seduces with its display of French macarons in watercolor hues at the entrance. These light-as-air treats, caught somewhere in the delicious purgatory between a candy and a cookie, come in lavish flavors like olive oil vanilla, Meyer lemon, and lavender. Moving on to the chocolate case, you’ll find artisanal, single-bean origin chocolates and candies. The gelato case is equally as tempting, with ice cream and sorbet offerings like sweet corn, guava-vanilla, and Venezuelan chocolate. There’s also an array of espresso drinks and tea by Le Palais de Thes. After such indulgence, you may be moved to buy a copy of French Women Don’t Get Fat, available for purchase at the counter. We’re pretty certain your sweet tooth will be satisfied, but in case it’s not, the Sprinkles Cupcakes Pantry Pickup is just two doors down. You can always atone for your diet sins at vegan diner Real Food Daily next door.

TIPS: If any of the delicate macarons or candies have become broken or cracked, they’re offered up at the counter for free, and they still taste remarkable.