Okay, this might be the cutest dessert I’ve come across in the DMV, and I need you guys to know about it. Olivia Macaron over in Union Market can print actual photos right onto their macarons and drinks, so naturally I had to get a few done with a picture of Daisy.
You pick from two colors, put it on whatever flavors you like, and suddenly you’ve got the most personal little gift (or treat-yourself moment) imaginable. Quick heads up, the NOM Digital team (hi, that’s us) handles their social, so I’ve spent plenty of time with this menu, but I’d be sending you here regardless because the macs are legit SO good. If you’re anywhere near NE DC and you love a sweet spot with a fun twist, Olivia Macaron’s a must, and the custom printing’s the reason to go out of your way for it!
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What Makes Olivia Macaron So Special?
Plenty of places sell a good macaron, but the photo printing is an extra cute touch. Olivia Macaron’s a local DC brand that’s been around since 2013, and the Union Market location leans into that little-piece-of-Paris feel with handcrafted French macarons, espresso drinks, and a small food menu. The edible photo printing’s genuinely rare, which makes it clutch for birthdays, proposals, baby showers, or honestly just because you want your dog’s face on a cookie. Bonus for anyone who needs it, the classic macarons are gluten-free, and there are usually a few vegan flavors in the case too.
What to Order at Olivia Macaron
Here’s what I got and what I’d tell you to grab.
The Macarons ($3.50 each)
Start with the classics, because at $3.50 a pop they’re an easy yes. They’re crisp on the outside, chewy in the middle, and the flavor lineup runs deep, think salted caramel, pistachio, London fog, red velvet, lychee rose raspberry, and a rotating cast of others. They’re delish on their own, and they’re the base for the custom printing, so this is where I’d start no matter what.
The Custom Photo Macarons (+$2 to print)
This is the move. For an extra $2 per piece they’ll print a photo directly onto the macaron in one of two colors. The ink’s pricey, hence the upcharge, but it’s so worth it for a gift or a special occasion. I did mine with Daisy and couldn’t handle how cute they turned out. Just plan a little ahead if you want a specific image, and keep the flavor simple underneath since the photo’s the star.
The Waffle, Breakfast Sandwich, and Chocolate Cake
Here’s what surprised me, the food’s actually really good. They have one of the BEST waffles I’ve ever had, no exaggeration, plus a breakfast sandwich and a chocolate cake I’m low-key obsessed with. So if you come for dessert but end up hungry, you’re covered. This is a full little cafe, not just a macaron counter.
The Creme Brulee Matcha
Newest thing on my radar, they just dropped a creme brulee matcha and it kind of blew my mind. If you’re a matcha person, it’s a fun switch-up to add to your list. Grab one to sip while you pick out your macs.
Why the Custom Macarons Are My Go-To Gift
Real talk, this is the reason I keep recommending Olivia Macaron. A box of macarons is already a lovely gift, but printing someone’s pet, a baby photo, or a company logo on top turns it into something people actually remember. I can already tell these are going to be my move for gifts and special occasions, because they never miss. It’s thoughtful without being over-the-top pricey, and it beats another generic gift card every single time.
The Vibe and Experience
The Union Market location has that lovely, bright Parisian feel, and it’s an easy hang whether you’re grabbing macs to go or posting up with an espresso. It sits right in the Union Market district in NE DC, so you can pair it with a whole afternoon of eating and browsing over there. Parking in the area’s do-able (there’s a lot out front with a few free hours, plus street and garage options), or hop off the Red Line at NoMa-Gallaudet and walk over. If you’re building a DC dessert crawl, it fits right in with spots like Donisima and Donut Run.
Good to Know
- Location: 📍 405 Morse St NE, Washington, DC (Union Market district)
- Hours: Sunday 11AM to 7PM, Monday to Thursday 10AM to 8PM, Friday to Saturday 10AM to 10PM
- Prices: Macarons $3.50 each, plus $2 per piece for custom photo printing
- Dietary: Classic macarons are gluten-free, with vegan flavors usually available
- Also serves: Espresso drinks, waffles, a breakfast sandwich, chocolate cake, and a new creme brulee matcha
- Getting there: Lot out front (a few hours free), plus street and garage parking, or the Red Line to NoMa-Gallaudet
- Other location: They also have a Tysons Corner spot in Virginia if that’s closer for you
- Order online: oliviamacaron.com
Is Olivia Macaron Worth A Trip?
YES, especially if you’ve got a gift to give or an occasion to make a little extra. The macarons are SO good on their own, but the custom photo printing is what makes this place a standout, and the fact that the waffles and coffee hold up is just a bonus. It’s an easy detour when you’re in Union Market, and it’s earned a permanent spot on my DC sweets list. Go get someone’s face put on a cookie, Nomsters, you won’t regret it.
Have you guys tried Olivia Macaron yet, or thought of a photo you’d want printed on a mac? Tell me in the comments, and if you’ve got someone impossible to shop for, save this and thank me later.