Laduree Desserts

Roses and chocolates will always reign supreme on Valentine's Day, but indulgent desserts are almost as popular. I am in awe of the skill and artistry to be found in many restaurants and patisseries. Each dessert promises deliciousness through the basic design principles of shape, color and texture. They are edible assemblages. The desserts at the New York branch of Laduree are especially beautiful. Even the way they are placed in the display case is important. They stand at angles, like starlets posing on the red carpet. Their presence in multiples sets up a rhythm and a pattern, making them almost as wonderful to look at as to eat. Almost.