If you love discovering small spots that take one craft seriously, plan a visit to Chiboo Bakery at Lake Anne in Reston. This nano-bakery focuses on French macarons, and everything is naturally gluten free. The shells are crisp at first bite, then settle into a soft chew, while the fillings stay rich and smooth without being heavy. Flavors rotate with the seasons and blend classics with creative pairings inspired by owner Chelsea’s Malaysian background. On days the retail counter is open, macarons are baked in the shop, so the case looks fresh and feels celebratory the moment you walk in.
Where to find Chiboo Bakery and when to go
Chiboo sits on the historic plaza at 11412 Washington Plaza W, Reston, VA 20190. Weekend walk-in hours are Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday is available by appointment for catering and pre-order pickups. Check the latest details on the Chiboo Bakery site before you head out.
If you are driving, park in the main Lake Anne Plaza lot and take a short stroll to the waterfront. Pair your visit with a lap around Lake Anne Plaza to see mid-century modern architecture, local artwork, and independent shops that give this corner of Reston its personality.
What makes these macarons stand out
Macarons live and die by texture and balance. Chiboo’s shells give a gentle crackle, then yield to that signature chew, and the buttercreams and ganaches stay silky. I tried pistachio, cinnamon with brown sugar, and a flavor with balsamic that surprised me in the best way. The balsamic note added a bright pop that made the other flavors feel layered rather than sweet for sweetness’ sake.
The menu changes with the seasons, so you will find a mix of traditional flavors and playful combinations that nod to Malaysian tastes. Expect rotations that keep regulars curious and make it easy to build a box with both comfort picks and something new.
100 percent gluten free
Chiboo is entirely gluten free by design. For anyone with celiac or a wheat sensitivity, that matters. The focus on macarons helps the team control production and maintain consistent quality. If you have other allergies, reach out ahead of time through the contact page so the staff can walk you through ingredients and preparation.
Sourcing close to home
One of the joys of Lake Anne is how many businesses connect with the Reston Farmers Market that sets up on the plaza on Saturdays in season. Chiboo often sources select ingredients from market vendors, which brings a local twist to their seasonal flavors. If you are planning a Saturday visit, arrive early, shop the market, then circle back for a box of macarons to enjoy on the plaza or take home.
Classes and what’s next for Chiboo
Chelsea has been considering small-group baking classes in their commercial kitchen. If that sounds like your kind of Saturday, keep an eye on updates from Chiboo Bakery or ask at the counter about timing and topics. Hands-on sessions focused on piping, oven troubleshooting, and filling balance would be a welcome addition for local bakers.
There is also big news for commuters and day-trippers. Chiboo is opening a location at Union Station in Washington, DC. That means an easy pickup before a train ride or a quick stop while exploring the city. Watch the Union Station directory and Chiboo’s site for the opening timeline and hours.
How to order and what to expect
Walk in on the weekend to see what is in the case or place a pre-order for events and gifting. Chiboo offers custom boxes, color-matched themes, and character designs with enough lead time. For corporate events, neighborhood gatherings, or celebrations at home, ask about quantity pricing and delivery options. Browse flavors and customization details on the macaron menu, then submit an inquiry.
If you are hosting an open house or a community meetup in Reston or Herndon, macarons make a simple dessert board. Mix a few familiar flavors with a couple of seasonal picks to keep the spread interesting. Add coffee from a plaza shop and you have an easy setup that feels special without a lot of fuss.
Make a day of it at Lake Anne
Lake Anne is the historic heart of Reston. The neighborhood blends architecture, public art, and a waterfront promenade in a way that encourages people to slow down. After you pick up your box at Chiboo, grab a bench by the lake or wander through the galleries and boutiques. If the market is in season, plan your route so you can shop, snack, and still have time to enjoy the plaza before lunchtime. Learn more about the community calendar and the businesses that call this place home on the Lake Anne Plaza site.
Pro tips for first-timers
Arrive early on weekends. Popular flavors can sell out, especially during market season and on sunny afternoons.
Build a balanced box. Pair one or two classics with a couple of seasonal or Malaysian-inspired flavors for contrast.
Let them warm slightly. Give macarons a few minutes at room temperature so the textures settle and the fillings shine.
Ask about upcoming flavors. Staff will often share what is coming next in the rotation.
Consider pre-ordering. For larger gatherings or custom colors, place an order ahead of time through Chiboo Bakery.
Practical details at a glance
Name and location: Chiboo Bakery, 11412 Washington Plaza W, Reston, VA 20190.
Walk-in hours: Friday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. By appointment Monday to Thursday for catering and pre-order pickups.
What to expect: Gluten free macarons baked on site, seasonal rotations, Malaysian-inspired flavors, custom orders for events.
Nearby: Lake Anne Plaza with independent shops, public art, waterfront views, and a relaxed pace.
Coming soon: A new Chiboo location at Union Station in Washington, DC.
Why Chiboo belongs on your Reston list
Hyper-local businesses give Reston its character. Chiboo shows how a focused craft can elevate a neighborhood visit into a small ritual. You get quality you can taste, a flavor list that changes with the seasons, and a reason to spend time at Lake Anne. If you are sketching out weekend plans in Northern Virginia, this is an easy add that rewards repeat visits.
