Angelina and Chanel

Each term the students in the intermediate pastry classes attend a field trip to a famous tea room in the first arrondissement of Paris called Angelina.  Angelina opened it's doors in 1903 and has been a haven for French society, celebrities, and sweets lovers alike ever since.  It is not only beautiful, but they have many, many desserts to choose from.  We were treated to a little taste of everything while we were there.

The most famous dessert is something called a Mont Blanc.  It is a perfect combination of meringue, freshly whipped cream, and sweet chestnut cream paste.  It is nothing like a traditional American dessert and I cannot really explain the taste, but it is definitely something unique to Paris that everyone should try at least once.  We also had what is known as the best hot chocolate in Paris.  It is extremely thick, rich, and creamy all at once.  It is a very intense flavor experience.  Finally we rounded out our plates with a chocolate raspberry macaroon made specially for Eva Longoria on one of her frequent trips to Angelina.

After the tasting and behind the scenes tour of the kitchen at Angelina we walked outside and I had my first celebrity sighting!  Standing next to his car with no less than four policemen was Karl Lagerfeld.  For those of you not in the know, Karl Lagerfeld designs for Chanel which has it's headquarters just around the corner from the Tearoom.  He is easily recognizable as he is always seen with his white hair tied back in a ponytail and he always wears dark black sunglasses and studded black gloves with finger holes.  A very exciting end to a very exciting day!

Until next time Au Revoir and Bon Appetit!