While neighboring Belgium and distant Switzerland eclipse the Netherlands when it comes to achievements in chocolatiering, the Dutch capital has several sweet shops worth visiting, and top of the City Present’s stops for both cakes and chocolate is Pompadour. Located in the bustling, trendy Nine Streets section of the central canalbelt, on a gorgeous,...
The Parisian institution that is Patisserie Paul is one of the most popular French high-street chains, with its line-out-the-door storefronts from the Marais to Montparnasse, including small take-away kiosks in landmark locations such as the Tuilleries, offering a high-quality coffee, breakfast, lunch or lite-bite alternative to fast food for locals and foreigners alike. From...
Bottega Louie is more than an attempt to bring a European palace of cuisine and confection to California. In all its singular details, its atmosphere, and its presentation, Louie transforms a bus-stop and parking lot corner of South Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles into the buzzing block of the Champs Élysées. The space...
Ladurée, perhaps the world's most famous confectioner, is today a global institution. and for years it has been an essential stop for many tourists to Paris. On the Rue Royale, this original location of the circa-1862 tea and pastry salon is so intimate and romantic. They're renowned for their macarons, but it also makes...
Shopping in London can be exhausting, with the crowds and the traffic. The City Present will always love Harrods, but at times the elevators are overflowing and its impossible to get through the foodhalls. Thankfully, there are other dining options in the area. Whether for a quick, hot breakfast before the department store opens,...