Macarooned in the Valley
I have been remiss. This is not a new thing. A year ago I wanted to devote every second piece towards recognising someone or something who is doing a good thing. That’s fallen a bit by the wayside. This is me apologising to the universe.
Good things can come in all kinds of sizes. Sometimes good things can come in small circular parcels of goodness. Just two or three bites. So sweet. So easy.
A new venue called Maison St Honore (1) markets itself as the sweetest place in the Swan Valley. It certainly has the widest range of macaroons in the Swan valley. It may well have the widest range in the whole of Perth.
The care and attention to detail displayed in each macaroon is evidence that their products are all made and baked in house. Whilst some of the flavours are old favourites, many are not your usual fare. This provides options for the adventurous foodie.
Maison St Honore also boasts solid coffee made well. I’m particularly impressed that they have resisted the urge to push the so called ‘trendy’ coffee blends. Coffee should not be confused with a mocha, Frape topped with a maple foam. Those who are really into their coffee understand that it is coffee.
They also offer some basic light meals and as I understand it, they plan to expand this over time. Whilst I first sampled their produce in the afternoon, on my next visit they held a three-course dinner designed and delivered by a proper French Chef. I say proper because the steak tartar was the real deal and quite possibly the biggest serving of said meal I’ve ever had.
There’s plenty of room out back for a sizeable function. The yard itself has a wonderful rustic and relaxed feel. Patrons booking for a function can utilise the in house catering or they can organise their own catering.
Lastly, but by no means least importantly Maison St Honore has good facilities for young children. There’s a massive chalkboard, decent size sand pit and plenty of room for the little ones to run amok. This is a good thing, as should they sample a macaron, they will need to burn off all that sugar.
Whilst I enjoy what they are doing the thing I most respect about the establishment is that it is a small business run by a young person. It’s not a franchise. They aren’t planning to take over the Australian Macaroon market. It’s just passionate people doing what they want to do.
It’s something all of us would like to do I’d suggest. So we should get behind those who are living their dreams.