Saturday 20 / April / 2024
If you haven’t heard of Fauchon, I’ll go ahead and say that you’ve been living under a rock, or maybe you’re new in town, or just aren’t that into sweets. It is one of the most talked about places in town; serving chic Parisian luxury, topped with elegance, and a dusting of glamour.
Nestled on the outer side of Opera Galleria, Fauchon is a delicatessen cafe and restaurant that serves contemporary cuisine from France, signature patisseries, and even has a small boutique attached. It is known for being an outlet that offers a creative French culinary experience, and it is one of my absolute favourite places in the city.
On my first visit, I felt as if I’d walked into a beauty parlour furnished with contemporary pieces in a combination of white, black, and grey colours, as well as pink low-key LED lighting. Its art-driven decor, mirrors, and the stylish photographs lining the walls gave the place an ultra-feminine feel. I was quite impressed with the overall interior, a one-of-a-kind in Muscat. I also felt underdressed. But one look at the jewel-like selection of confections in the dessert case, and I brushed aside my awkward feeling.
I asked the staff at Fauchon to surprise me with the best desserts on their menu, and boy, they did deliver. The first dessert came out and was placed on my shiny black table. The so-called “golden luxury éclair” looked majestically delicious — a soft, puffed-up pastry piped with rich salted caramel crème and topped with crunchy, salted caramel nibbles and finished off with a spray of edible gold. I took a bite, which instantly melted in my mouth. Even though I knew there were more desserts on the way, I couldn’t stop eating it. i truly enjoyed every last bit.
The second dessert appeared: A soft, crumbly shortbread cookie filled with raspberry jam and topped with chopped pistachios and fresh raspberries. I’m personally not a fan of raspberries, but the cookie tasted great, and I’m sure those who love the tart fruit would be crazy about this treat.
Third dessert was presented like a piece of modern art. A plate had been arranged with a vibrant selection of Fauchon’s signature luxury treats; mini macaroons, those delicate, moist cookie sandwiches famous for their crunchy outer shell and sinfully sweet flavoured fillings. There were shocking green pistachio, almost neon-coloured lemon, rich chocolate, caramel, and delicate vanilla macaroons among them.
After that day, I was hooked. Apart from the haute couture pastries, the restaurant has a fantastic range of salads, French breads, and other savoury dishes, and the boutique offers preserves, chocolates, teas, and gifts. All the items are handmade by the dedicated local culinary team. A new branch is set to open at Muscat Grand Mall soon, and I hope it is able to maintain its sophisticated flair.
Fauchon combines two of my favourite things; food and fashion. Its great ambiance and friendly staff make it my ideal spot for gathering with friends, or just to pick up a little indulgence for myself. A visit to Fauchon always seems to lift my mood and that’s why I can wholeheartedly recommend this classic, ritzy, Paris-comes-to-Muscat cafe as my editor’s pick.
Why to go
• Fashionable, trendy vibe
• Chic architecture and decor
• Great service
• Spectacular desserts
What to order
• Espresso-based drink
• Golden luxury eclair OMR2.2
• Mini macaroon OMR1
Fauchon
Opera Galleria, Al Kharjiyah St, Muscat
+968 2234 6999
fauchon.com
Open from 9am to 11pm daily
