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Amandine’s Macarons

Don’t expect the classic typical flavors we usually think of when we think of macarons. At Amandine Bakeshop, they don’t bake plain chocolate, vanilla or strawberry but instead opt for really original unique flavor combination. Imagine: Strawberry Lavender Verbana, Matcha with Shaved Dark Chocolate, Orange blossom Thyme, Roasted Mixed Nuts and Praline Macaron, …

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The consistency of Amandine’s macaron is really the way I like it. I don’t know if it is supposed to be like this but I like a macaron not when it is chewy all over but when it is soft inside and crispy outside with the right amount of creamy filling.

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So today I went back to the little bakeshop on Capitol Hill (on the 11th avenue between Pike and Union). I was there with a friend and we enjoyed the outdoor seating (4 chairs to be accurate) on this sunny first day of fall.

It was lunch time but whatever… Here is what my lunch looked like today: a very balanced and healthy combination of… a latte and two huge macarons!

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I have to go back to taste the other pastries.  The croissants and madeleines looked delicious though.

The Brownie Macaron is really different. It has a strong and delicious chocolate flavor but I don’t really like the chewy texture but… my daughter loves it!

I brought back a box for my gourmands at home.

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Amandine 1424 11th Avenue 

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Storyville, a Hidden Coffee Place

The location of this hidden cafe close to Pike Market is perfect: Storyville is located on the second floor of a building across Pike Place Market. To find it, just follow the signs.

The decor is nice and resting in the comfy armchairs is extremely relaxing. You can play a game called IRK that is set on some tables.

Their pastries looked great but I only ordered a cup of coffee, which I enjoyed while relaxing and watching the place.

Through the windows you can see the Market and the Puget Sound, weather permitting.

And of course, WiFi is available!

Storyville 94 Pike St. #34

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Honoré Bakery

Update on 6/10/2016: Unfortunately Honoré Bakery has been sold.

What should I try? Tough decision to make!

Everything was so refined and tempting. We came back home with a fantastic Pain au Levain, a Chocolate and Salted Caramel tart (maybe too much caramel), and a pretty good Milk Chocolate and Hazelnut mousse. I need to go back for the Kouign Aman. They have a fabulous one at Crumble and Flake but I would like to try this one.

Honoré Bakery 1413 NW 70th Street