Some food trends are a flash in the pan, in one season and out the next, but macarons have demonstrated a curious staying power—they’ve even become a common sight at chain bakeries. At Pied, you can enjoy well-made macarons in the calm of a Hannam-dong back alley cafe. White walls and light grey marble offset the bright macarons (there are about ten varieties on sale daily). The baker behind these colorful creations is self-taught, but takes her studies seriously—Pied was named for the ruffled bottom edge (or “foot”) of each cookie piece that all well-made macarons should have. The kitchen where the macarons are made is enclosed in glass so customers and passersbys alike can see where the magic happens.
In addition to the typical coffee drinks, Pied serves a variety of imported teas (including Mariage Frères and Kusmi). There is also a meeting room in the back with a large table that can be reserved.