You know I loved it. You know as soon as I caught sight of that little misplaced shop, with its red and black exterior and its big glass windows all full of charm, sitting, rather conspicuously on the side of the city’s main round-about, that I was all in. It’s like a big beer in an Irish pub. Or the innocent suggestions of a trip somewhere exotic. I’m a sucker for it. I know whatever comes on the other end is going to be happy happy. I know ‘yes’ is probably the answer. I’m so predictable sometimes.
So I ventured over today in between my first meetings and waited in line. The place was bustling and there was a steady stream of clients. I’m not sure if this was because of my arrival at noon or simply that it’s the only real bakery in town. Nonetheless, they were doing a swift business and I had to let a gentleman go ahead of me because I couldn’t decide what I wanted.
Scratch that.
I wanted everything and couldn’t decide how I could possibly justify buying an entire tart, three types of éclairs, croissants, pains au chocolat, bread and pizzas all at one time. I thought about it (you know I did) and decided on just the baguette and an éclair. I even waited to eat the éclair until I got home. When did I get so socially conscious? Weird. Must be a fluke.
The women working the front were pleasant and charming. And when I asked them if they were the only bakery in town, the one quipped, “we’re the best in town!” To which I responded, “Mais bien sur, c’est evident!” –well of course, that’s obvious!
It is, I think, very important to butter up the bread ladies. (pun not intended, but I’ll take it).
And boy, was their bread good. The éclair, too. I’m pretty sure it was all made in-house. I could smell the bready yeastiness wafting through the air. I love that smell. Thank goodness I finally found it within walking distance. I’m sure I’ll be back.