Maybe a bit more pretentious than a cupcake, but it appears the Macaron is putting the pressure on New York’s favorite dessert.  This Saturday, March 20, New York is hosting the first (annual? please?) Macaron Day.

It’s very simple, just visit a participating restaurant/bakery, mention that you’re there for Macaron Day and enjoy a free treat.  Here is a list of participating venues:

• Almondine Bakery (DUMBO and Park Slope)
• Bouchon Bakery (Columbus Circle)
• Burdick Chocolate (Flatiron)
• Butterfield Market (Upper East Side)
• Cannelle Patisserie (East Elmhurst)
• Dessert Truck Works (Lower East Side)
• FC Chocolate Bar (Upper East Side)
• La Maison Du Chocolat (Rockafeller Center, Upper East, Financial District and Empire State Building)
• Macaron Cafe (Midtown West)
• Madeline Patisserie (Flatiron)
• Mad-Mac “The Authentic French Macarons” at Benardaud (Midtown East)
• Silver Moon Bakery (Upper West Side)

Macarons are actually a favorite of mine, especially those from Bouchon (noted in the recent birthday post directed at boyfriend), so you know that I’ll be in line early for my freebie.  Actually, as the Web site notes that quantities are limited, I should probably direct you elsewhere.  In fact, don’t go there.  They don’t melt into sugary goodness with every bite.  They don’t have delicious, seasonal flavors.  Nooo, don’t go to Bouchon…

BTW, proceeds from macaron sales that day will benefit City Harvest, a fantastic local organization that helps the city’s hungry.  It is the world’s first food rescue organization, and feeds 260,000 hungry New Yorkers every week.

Image courtesy of Bouchon Bakery