Yelen P.
Yelp
The man in the window commented that we were getting all the bread. Which we did. We didn't come to play. So let's get down to the serious business of bread.
After we got our items, we sat at a bench in a nearby park to try everything. As we ate, the shade was replaced by the sun, making it very hot. Each item gradually added to build up to an overall delectable experience that made us feel even warmer, and we had to get up several times during eating so as to reorient ourselves so that we could regain our wits and continue on with the next item.
Service: the line wrapped around the corner of the building, and it took 20 minutes to get to the window. Too long to make me want to go back at ~10am. The wait to get the food was much shorter.
Ambiance: not much ambiance. The employees were friendly, but it felt a bit impersonal (more of a go-to-the-window-and-get-your-food) as they were trying to serve many people.
Food:
Breads:
Red chile loaf - I almost didn't get this, but it was a last-second addition, and I'm glad I did. It's got a good spicy kick, and there are occasional garlic pieces. It sniffs so good, the inside is red, and you can see the red chile diffusely throughout.
Pistachio pear cardamom loaf - the pears were pretty sparse, and I wish there were more. The pistachio isn't terribly noticeable. But the cardamom flavor was great.
Pinon, pecorino, black pepper loaf - this was really good. Possibly my favorite item, and definitely my favorite bread. Unique combination of flavors. There were chunks of pecorino cheese, including one sticking out the side of the bread (fun), but I think there should be more cheese. I think it would also be good with melted cheese (warm up the loaf), which one could try at home.
Pastries:
Plum danish - the plum is tasty but it's a pretty standard pastry and not the most exciting one
Calamansi danish (curd, almond poppy crumble + lemon glaze) - tasty, citrus is always a good choice. The almond poppy crumble is memorable visually but stands out less taste-wise.
Seasonal jam bun (strawberry? rhubarb) - one of my favorites. The rhubarb is really good. Could use a little more jam though.
Boston cream cruffin - a sensual dessert. I had to clear my throat after watching the way the cream oozed out of the bottom. The inside was moist from the cream.
Banana miso butterscotch seasonal danish - so good and delectable. The butterscotch + miso cream made the inside nice and moist, like the Boston cream cruffin
Tomato pesto and chèvre seasonal danish - a savory pastry that isn't unique but was very well done. I usually don't get the same thing twice, but this is something that I would get again.
Green chile and jack cheese croissant - excellent flavor, presentation, texture