BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Gina Passerman, visibly emotional, stood Friday surrounded by her family at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Le Macaron, a new French pastry shop located at 521 Main Street.
The vision for the shop, Passerman explained, took shape during the COVID-19 pandemic. “This is a dream that came to me during COVID,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “I wanted to create a place where people can gather, enjoy each other’s company, and leave with smiles on their faces.”
Le Macaron offers an array of fresh-baked French pastries, including macarons, éclairs, and croissants. The menu also features espresso, coffee, chocolates, and gelato. The shop prides itself on using pure, preservative-free ingredients in all of its products.
Passerman, who spent over 30 years working in finance, expressed excitement about the shift to a more joyful and fulfilling career. “In finance, I was expected to be available 24/7. People didn’t call me to share good news; they called in crisis,” she reflected. “Now, I’m looking forward to providing a space where happiness is the focus.”
Although the Passerman family is Italian, the pastries and macarons are made by a French-trained baker. Passerman’s love for macarons runs deep, and the family has spent time baking and tasting the treats together. “It just seemed like the right fit,” she said.
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests enjoyed a selection of macaron flavors, including birthday cake, tiramisu, vanilla, and a champagne flavor created for the grand opening. The pastries were an instant hit, with one guest calling them “exceptional.”
“We’re constantly adding new products and expanding our menu, offering both sweet and savory treats, as well as coffee,” Passerman said. “We even have a jewelry stand with earrings that look like macarons.”
The grand opening was met with support from local leaders. Marek Tomanek, deputy director of Northampton County’s community and economic development department, presented Passerman with a certificate of achievement. “It’s truly a special place,” Tomanek said, “and I look forward to seeing you thrive in a community with such unique charm and energy.”
Bethlehem Economic Development Coordinator Alex Miller, representing Mayor J. William Reynolds, also showed support with a proclamation. “We’re thrilled to see Main Street get a little sweeter and a little more pastel,” Miller said.
With tears of gratitude in her eyes, Passerman expressed her thanks. “We are honored to be here, and I have to thank my family, my oldest friends, and my new friends who have supported me every step of the way. We are thrilled to bring joy to Bethlehem and beyond.”
Le Macaron’s opening marks the beginning of what Passerman hopes will be a long and successful journey, sharing French-inspired sweetness with the community.