A Parisian Institution Falls Flat in Moscow
add_circle Pros
- The store's decor is spot on, with the same colors and displays as the Paris locations.
- The macarons are still delicious, but the selection was limited compared to the Paris stores.
- The store is well-located on Patriarch's Ponds, making it easy to find.
- The prices are reasonable, especially considering the high-quality ingredients.
- The staff does try to be friendly, even if they don't quite succeed.
- The store has a nice atmosphere, even if it's not quite the same as the Paris locations.
remove_circle Cons
- The service was consistently slow and unfriendly, which made the whole experience frustrating.
- The food quality was hit-or-miss, with some items being overcooked or underseasoned.
- The selection of macarons was limited, which was a disappointment.
- The staff seemed overwhelmed and stressed, which made the experience feel tense.
- The store's atmosphere was lacking, which made it feel like a generic cafe rather than a high-end patisserie.
- The store could improve on its value for money, considering the high prices and subpar service.
Gallery
Editor's Summary
I was super stoked when Ladurée finally opened up shop in Moscow, but unfortunately, their Moscow location fell flat. The store looks great, but the service and food were subpar. I visited twice, hoping it was just a one-off, but the experience was consistently underwhelming. The staff seemed overwhelmed and unfriendly, which made the whole experience feel like a total letdown. If you're looking for a taste of Paris in Moscow, you might want to keep looking.
Specifications
I was super stoked when I heard Ladurée, the iconic Parisian patisserie, had finally set up shop in Moscow. Those colorful little macarons in their signature pistachio boxes are basically the ultimate Paris souvenir for anyone visiting the City of Light.
Now, Muscovites and visitors alike can get their hands on some of that French magic at Ladurée's Moscow location on Patriarch's Ponds. The store looks just like the Paris ones, with the same colors, displays, and decor - they're really trying to lure you in from the street.
You can grab some treats and sit down for a coffee, wine, or tea, and enjoy some desserts in their tiny but cozy seating area. However, it's pretty cramped, and everyone's squished in and overhearing each other's conversations.
The staff are doing their best to keep up with the demand, but it's clear they're feeling the pressure. I watched them do some serious acrobatics to get the hot coffee cups onto the tables without spilling a drop.
Now, the main event - the taste. I'm gonna be blunt - it's a no-go. The macarons are not fresh, a bit too hard, and completely lack the tenderness that makes Parisian macarons so unforgettable. The coffee is pretty mediocre too.
Ladurée in Moscow - not recommended. The high price point of 225 rubles per macaron doesn't help, either. For that kind of money, I expect a lot more.