Having been to the highlights of Paris, it was time to explore the city itself. The temperature this morning was probably in the low single-digit deg C. It was a little uncomfortable for me, and I found myself wishing for some sunlight. After a heavy breakfast in the hotel, we took a slow stroll around the Invalides neighbourhood. The picture above shows the Golden Dome of the cathedral at Hotel Nationale Invalides. We understand that Napoleon's tomb lies beneath this dome.
A short distance away just across the bridge, we arrived at Avenue des Champs-Elysee. This is the famed tree-lined up-market shopping street in Paris.
Flagship stores of huge international luxury brands are not located exactly on this street itself, but around this area. LV's flagship store is situated at one corner just off Ave Champs-Elysee. See picture below.
It was past noon by the time we reached the upper end of Ave Champs-Elysee. The Arc de Triomph at Place Charles de Gaulle, stood majestically across the busy cross junction.
It was time for lunch, and Laduree (the Avenue Champs-Elysee outlet) seemed a great choice. I've always wanted to try macarons from the originals, and I read somewhere that macarons originated from Laduree. With a history of over a hundred years, the outlet at Avenue Champs-Elysee retains much of the old charm.
There was a long queue at the pastry section and photo-taking was forbidden. Somehow, Yan managed to snap a shot of the famous macarons. There were many flavors, and we bought one of each. The restaurant section was also crowded and many lunch-goers were turned away. We were fortunate to be able to find a table.
Table setting was simple but professional. I ordered foei gras (yet again) for appetizer and grilled veal loin for main course, while Yan went for something healthier - baked cod with mashed pumpkin. The food here is decent, but nothing much to shout about. We came primarily for its famous macarons which didn't disappoint.
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