Duchess is a destination. You'd cross town to eat here – barefoot in snow if necessary. Feeling like it dropped straight from France, complete with Louis XV–style chairs, the Duchess' French-press coffee and huge array of fresh baking leave you spoiled for choice. Mocha meringues, cream-cheese-and-leek croissants, and cherry basil eclairs are just the tip of the iceberg.
Duchess is also famous for its macarons. Try the salted caramel and you'll know why. Arrive early, before the queuing locals have stripped the cases bare. There's an affiliated provisions shop next door where you can pick up the cookbook, coffee and kits for baking at home.
