Before I begin my praise for PAUL’s pastries and this apple tart’s splendor, I will apologize for my recent paucity of posts. It’s midterm season here at Georgetown and my studying has demanded more time than I’d like to spend. The good news is that I’m returning with a review of ONE OF THE BEST TARTS I HAVE EVER CONSUMED. MY, OH MY.

My last review of PAUL covered a bisque and a croissant, which were both delicious, but this one will follow a breakfast theme instead. The wannabe Parisian in me ordered a small latte and an almond apple tart while running errands on M Street; let’s just say it was the perfect pick-me-up for a busy day! My great aunt recommended this tart to me over break, describing it as magical, life-changing, and scrumptious. Knowing that she’s no culinary tyro, I decided that I had to try it for myself.

Name: PAUL

Location: 1078 Wisconsin Avenue NW (Washington, D.C.)

Time: 10 am on Friday

Order: Small skim latte and apple and almond tart (flan normand)

Price: $6.16

Review: For starters, the latte was a quality drink – and that’s coming from a barista. The foam ratio was just right, the milk was ideally steamed, and the espresso shots were well-pulled. As for the tart, I don’t know where to begin. The size was absolutely perfect because it was filling and thick (although I wouldn’t have minded another helping…), yet not stomachache-inducing. The custard was deliciously sweet yet tart (ha ha) and layered with perfectly sliced almonds and apples, all topped off with an incredible powdered sugar. Surprisingly enough, the tart wasn’t messy at all because of the powdered sugar or bitter because of the apples. Usually tarts run the risk of extreme sourness or extreme sweetness, but this one hit the spot. My mouth is actually watering from all of this reminiscing. I wonder if I can run out to PAUL tomorrow for another one…

Rating: 5/5