If you want to taste the best Frech macarons in the DC area go here:
www.michelpatisserie.com

Michel actually uses my kitchen here to make his macarons, as he does not have a storefront yet. I guarantee they are the best in the area and equal (if not better) than what you will find in Paris. In fact, I am enjoying some right now....

Wow. I'm in big trouble, if they're as delicious as they sound.

I ordered a sampler box from here. They totally kick Patisserie Poupon's @$$. The passionfruit is very striking with passionfruit cookie and a sort of chocolate-blended ganache. I had no desire to share the French vanilla flavor, and the caramel fleur de sel has a very pleasing burnt caramel flavor. Complex, perfect filling to cookie ratio, and great cookie texture. I am still slowly working my way through the remainder of the box. Definitely would make a great gift.

I tried these a couple of weeks ago and they were amazing. I got a sampler of six flavors: mint, caramel, chocolate, raspberry, lemon, and coffee. I had every intention of sharing these jewel toned treats but didn't quite have the self control. The flavors were bright and fresh. The mint flavor tasted of fresh mint leaves rather than peppermint oil and the caramel macaron is a must try for anyone who is a fan of salted butter caramels. These would be a lovely hostess gift for those upcoming holiday soirees.

ordered some of these last week - very, very good - hard to pick a favorite but if I had to it would be either the passionfruit or the chocolate - having pick-up at Artisan makes it very convenient