Ladurée Pastries in Burlington Arcade: A Touch of Parisian Elegance in London

Nestled within the elegant confines of Burlington Arcade, a historic shopping gallery in the heart of Mayfair, London, Ladurée brings a quintessentially French patisserie experience to the city. Famous for its luxurious atmosphere and high-end boutiques, Burlington Arcade provides a fitting backdrop for Ladurée, where tradition meets opulence in every bite.

A Brief History of Burlington Arcade

Burlington Arcade, opened in 1819, is one of London’s oldest and most celebrated shopping arcades. It was commissioned by Lord George Cavendish, ostensibly to prevent passersby from littering and throwing oyster shells into his garden.

Over two centuries, it has evolved into a symbol of luxury, housing some of the finest jewelers, perfumers, and fashion houses. Ladurée’s presence in this historic arcade continues this legacy of elegance and refinement.

We have more information and photos of the Burlington Arcade during Christmas in our other post.

Ladurée: A Parisian Icon

Founded in 1862 by Louis-Ernest Ladurée, the Parisian patisserie began as a bakery in the heart of the French capital. Ladurée’s transformation into a tea room and its subsequent international fame are largely attributed to Pierre Desfontaines, who invented the double-decker macaron in the early 20th century. This delicate confection, with its crisp shell and creamy ganache filling, has since become synonymous with the Ladurée name.

The Ladurée Experience in Burlington Arcade

Entering Ladurée in Burlington Arcade feels like stepping into a Parisian salon. The interior design, characterised by gold finished cave like sculpture with gilded accents, creates an ambiance of fascination and sophistication.

The only problem is, this is a small takeaway-only store with limited space. At any given time, the shop will be filled with people. But it does have a full window view so you can admire the confectionary from the outside especially the Macarons, Pastries and Cakes before going in to order your take out.

Macarons: The Star Attraction

Ladurée’s macarons are the pièce de résistance. Available in an array of flavors, from classic vanilla and rose to innovative seasonal varieties, each macaron is a testament to the patisserie’s dedication to perfection. The meticulously crafted shells and flavorful fillings offer a harmonious balance of texture and taste that has made Ladurée macarons a global delicacy.

Beyond Macarons: Cakes, Tarts, Eclairs, Pastries and more

While macarons may be Ladurée’s most famous offering, the Burlington Arcade location features an extensive menu of pastries and desserts. Éclairs, tarts, and millefeuille showcase the brand’s prowess in classic French patisserie techniques.

For a savory treat, try their delicious quiches and sandwiches but only at Laduree in Covent Garden, a restaurant with seating areas both indoor and outside.

A Hub of Cultural Fusion

Ladurée in Burlington Arcade represents more than just a patisserie; it is a cultural bridge between Paris and London. The blend of French culinary artistry with London’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

Final Thoughts

Ladurée’s presence in Burlington Arcade is a celebration of luxury, tradition, and culinary excellence. It offers a unique opportunity to savor the finest French pastries in one of London’s most prestigious settings. Whether you are indulging in a box of their famous macarons or enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea, a visit to Ladurée in Burlington Arcade promises a delightful and unforgettable experience.