Trained as a classic French pastry chef at the French Culinary Institute, Les Madeleines’ owner Romina Rasmussen prepares everything at her patisserie and café from scratch. Interestingly, she says her food need only meet two requirements: that it be pretty and delicious. Well, check and check. The classics take on new life at Les Madeleines where a croissant might be spiked with Valrhona chocolate; an éclair with Meyer lemon, coffee, pistachio and cardamom; or a cupcake with green tea and jasmine. At lunch, try the “Madrid” sandwich with Serrano ham, poached egg, Manchego cheese, and roasted asparagus.
