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The cheese and ham croissant was so good. The crispy cheese on the bottom really added to the flavor. The strawberry danish wasn't too sweet and was flakey and lovely. The cheese twist was ok. I loved the cheese I just wish I had more of it on or in it. There was quite a line to get in but the wait was worth it. There's not a lot of seating outside but there's more on the porch. Overall very good!
Love this spot with ample parking and adorable outdoor seating! Pastries and coffee were outstanding and the service was great! Vibe feels very eclectic and funky and would definitely come back to try all the different pastry options!
The line is always out the door so I finally made it over early on a Friday morning. I got a strawberry croissant and a chocolate crinkle cookie. Both were really good. I saw a lot of people try their English muffins so I will be back to give it a go. The outdoor patio seating is inviting and grab spot to grab a coffee and relax. Love the concept of the open kitchen inside.
The easiest 5 stars I will write this year. I had never heard of them before, but by UVA daughter is in love and a regular. My Hoo filled me in on the behind the scenes things she has discovered making them special. So on University of Virginia Family Weekend we checked them out. I quickly learned Cou Cou is the most beloved locals coffee and pastry shop in all of Charlottesville. Furthermore, the shop is an inspiration for other businesses to model themselves after. One of the major items my daughter said that was a head turner was that the owner is not only French trained, but a local to the area. The shop is an authentic French bakery from the ingredients to their baking practices. The location lends itself to UVA students and staff since it's just off grounds. With just one visit I was star struck with the total operation. The vibe is relaxed and cheeky. Nothing pretentious about Cou Cou whatsoever, Just come as you are and be prepared for a comfortable setting in their heated outdoor patio if you eat in. The selection was surprisingly still good early afternoon on a Sunday, but obviously they were low to sold out of some items. The menu board helps guide customers. I got a Miso chocolate chip cookie and raspberry beignet. So much in the vase looked wonderful. The young staff was excellent in helping me navigate. The woman recommended a cappuccino to pair with my items, so why not. I decided to enjoy on their patio. My two baked goods were served on a plate and given to me at checkout. The price point pushes , but always willing to pay for quality. I also tipped 20%. My coffee was brought out by another one of their friendly staff. It was hard to decide where to start. The Japanese inspired Miso cookie had a sweet taste and fresh! A unique take that I really liked. The beignet was a head turner in the case and did not disappoint. The perfectly made pastry had the right amount of sugar on top and was loaded with filling. No corners were cut. My cappuccino was wonderfully balanced and a treat paired with my goodies. I witnessed staff cleaning and wiping down tables keeping the area tidy. I cannot say enough marvelous things about this tiny little bakery find in the back of a small strip. With almost no visibility the locals can find you. I wanted to make sure others can as well thus my review. Although I had no interaction with the owner I did see her working in the kitchen among her young staff. You can feel the passion for excellence, not profits. Cou Cou is a Charlottesville gem for both locals and visitors. I will be back and tell others on the UVA school board that may not know. Just a note I did request Yelp to add them to the searchable "breakfast & brunch" and "coffee & tea" categories to assist customers finding them. I see they added breakfast & brunch quickly and pending coffee & tea.
An assortment of French Boulangerie items. Aka French-inspired bakery, with coffee. High quality. Not inexpensive but very popular, with a line. Friendly service and a nice atmosphere. Give it a try!
I checked out Cou Cou Rachou with some friends over the weekend since we wanted a quick pastry stop before our hike, and it did not disappoint! There was a line out the door when we got there, but it moved pretty quickly. I grabbed a canelé and a cardamom braid--both were delicious. The canelé had a caramelized outside with a soft center, and the cardamom braid was super fragrant without being too sweet. The bakery itself is really cute! You can see the kitchen in the back, and the pastry case is filled with a lot of different options. The staff was friendly and answered all my questions. There isn't a ton of indoor seating, but they have a few outdoor tables. I didn't get a chance to sit and eat this time, but I'll definitely be back to try more things next time I'm in town!
Hands down one of the best bakeries in Cville! Came here with my brother to enjoy some pastries on a Saturday morning. We loved the interior design with touches of color at every turn. The place was bustling yet had a very cozy vibe. Reminded me of one of my favorite spots in Georgetown! The service was speedy with us being able to get our order within minutes. My brother and I split the quiche and an English muffin. Both tasted so fresh! I also recently tried some of their fall pastries - absolutely amazing. Cannot wait to go back to Cou Cou Rachou soon :)
A favorite coffee-and-a-pastry spot in Charlottesville. Excellent pastries--and a wide range--from super sweet, to a perfect coffee pairing, to savory. They use fresh and seasonal ingredients, and you can be sure that everything is delicious. Coffee is on point too, and they've got a limited menu of fun seasonal drinks if you're so inclined. Staff is always super kind, and keeps customers moving if there's a slight line (common on weekends). There's only a tiny bit of inside seating; the bulk is outside, so this is a great pick if the weather is good!
O M G! This was the best coffee shop I've been to in sooo long! I don't have a favorite out in Virginia Beach yet... I wish I could pick this place up and place it on the ocean front! I would be an every day regular... I ordered the matcha, which was sooo smooth and delicious. So was the drip coffee! We ordered and shared the cardamom twist, miso chocolate chip cookie, ham and cheese croissant, and the mandarin & red currant almond danish. Nothing was left. The croissants and danish were so flakey, buttery, and soft--but WOW. That danish!! I ordered one to go lol! Those pastry chefs know what they're doing. They also have a lovely selection of wines, granolas, and spreads. I will be coming again.
Great bakery option in Charlottesville. With ample outdoor and awning covered seating, it feels like you are at a cafe in France. From coffee offerings, baked goods, merchandise, and more, this spot is a must try. It's no inexpensive but you get what you pay for. Highly staffed and quick service makes this a great option for a weekend morning.
Over the last two years I've spent a lot of time traveling to and from Charlottesville and each time I made it a point to go to Marie Bette as they were my absolute favorite cafe, however, cou cou rachou carried a fantastic reputation and had always been on my list of places to give a shot. I finally went and was not impressed. The almond croissant was not up to par and their iced latte was also just mediocre.
Delicious baked goods !!! Expect a wait but it is so worth it!!!! Stopped by Cou Cou Rachou for a light snack and coffee. I tried two savory pastries, a ham and cheese croissant and a savory danish (has bacon and broccoli rabe and cheese in it). Both were really good but I especially liked the savory danish. Coffee was good too, I got it with lavender syrup but wish the syrup was a bit stronger. There is limited indoor seating but a nice patio outside if you want to enjoy your food and drinks outside!!
The closest thing to French quality i have ever experienced. The baguette is authentic and very tasty, so are all their pastries. This is a true french bakery. Staff are friendly and it is just so beautiful and nice inside. I only wish they stayed open longer.
21 days ago
3 months ago
Quaint, adored and adequate are the three words that come to mind for this masterpiece of a cafe. The fresh flowers on the table, the truly traditional open air kitchen, the pace of the restaurant, the umbrellas on the outside and the merchandise all soo cute and the coffee lattes are pretty perfect too. Go here, eat here, patron here, and across the street, purchase the coffee for home and the pastry for right then and there. This place f***ing rocks read more
Charming, beautifully designed French style bakery that offers the most creative, freshly-made pastries, breads, teas, coffees, logo-d clothing, wines, jams, seasonings & more. You can see the baker @ work in the open baking space kneading & rolling out dough & a staff that is friendly, efficient & working everywhere. Seating is inside @ antique-style tables set with vases of colorful flowers & outside on tables under cover, pets are welcome (only outside?), & a gentleman shares the outdoor space designing & sewing unique, cool pairs of denim jeans. read more
The cheese and ham croissant was so good. The crispy cheese on the bottom really added to the flavor. The strawberry danish wasn't too sweet and was flakey and lovely. The cheese twist was ok. I loved the cheese I just wish I had more of it on or in it. There was quite a line to get in but the wait was worth it. There's not a lot of seating outside but there's more on the porch. Overall very good! read more
3 months ago
Love this spot with ample parking and adorable outdoor seating! Pastries and coffee were outstanding and the service was great! Vibe feels very eclectic and funky and would definitely come back to try all the different pastry options! read more
The line is always out the door so I finally made it over early on a Friday morning. I got a strawberry croissant and a chocolate crinkle cookie. Both were really good. I saw a lot of people try their English muffins so I will be back to give it a go. The outdoor patio seating is inviting and grab spot to grab a coffee and relax. Love the concept of the open kitchen inside. read more
11 months ago
The easiest 5 stars I will write this year. I had never heard of them before, but by UVA daughter is in love and a regular. My Hoo filled me in on the behind the scenes things she has discovered making them special. So on University of Virginia Family Weekend we checked them out. I quickly learned Cou Cou is the most beloved locals coffee and pastry shop in all of Charlottesville. Furthermore, the shop is an inspiration for other businesses to model themselves after. One of the major items my daughter said that was a head turner was that the owner is not only French trained, but a local to the area. The shop is an authentic French bakery from the ingredients to their baking practices. The location lends itself to UVA students and staff since it's just off grounds. With just one visit I was star struck with the total operation. The vibe is relaxed and cheeky. Nothing pretentious about Cou Cou whatsoever, Just come as you are and be prepared for a comfortable setting in their heated outdoor patio if you eat in. The selection was surprisingly still good early afternoon on a Sunday, but obviously they were low to sold out of some items. The menu board helps guide customers. I got a Miso chocolate chip cookie and raspberry beignet. So much in the vase looked wonderful. The young staff was excellent in helping me navigate. The woman recommended a cappuccino to pair with my items, so why not. I decided to enjoy on their patio. My two baked goods were served on a plate and given to me at checkout. The price point pushes , but always willing to pay for quality. I also tipped 20%. My coffee was brought out by another one of their friendly staff. It was hard to decide where to start. The Japanese inspired Miso cookie had a sweet taste and fresh! A unique take that I really liked. The beignet was a head turner in the case and did not disappoint. The perfectly made pastry had the right amount of sugar on top and was loaded with filling. No corners were cut. My cappuccino was wonderfully balanced and a treat paired with my goodies. I witnessed staff cleaning and wiping down tables keeping the area tidy. I cannot say enough marvelous things about this tiny little bakery find in the back of a small strip. With almost no visibility the locals can find you. I wanted to make sure others can as well thus my review. Although I had no interaction with the owner I did see her working in the kitchen among her young staff. You can feel the passion for excellence, not profits. Cou Cou is a Charlottesville gem for both locals and visitors. I will be back and tell others on the UVA school board that may not know. Just a note I did request Yelp to add them to the searchable "breakfast & brunch" and "coffee & tea" categories to assist customers finding them. I see they added breakfast & brunch quickly and pending coffee & tea. read more
11 months ago
I checked out Cou Cou Rachou with some friends over the weekend since we wanted a quick pastry stop before our hike, and it did not disappoint! There was a line out the door when we got there, but it moved pretty quickly. I grabbed a canelé and a cardamom braid--both were delicious. The canelé had a caramelized outside with a soft center, and the cardamom braid was super fragrant without being too sweet. The bakery itself is really cute! You can see the kitchen in the back, and the pastry case is filled with a lot of different options. The staff was friendly and answered all my questions. There isn't a ton of indoor seating, but they have a few outdoor tables. I didn't get a chance to sit and eat this time, but I'll definitely be back to try more things next time I'm in town! read more
24 days ago
Hands down one of the best bakeries in Cville! Came here with my brother to enjoy some pastries on a Saturday morning. We loved the interior design with touches of color at every turn. The place was bustling yet had a very cozy vibe. Reminded me of one of my favorite spots in Georgetown! The service was speedy with us being able to get our order within minutes. My brother and I split the quiche and an English muffin. Both tasted so fresh! I also recently tried some of their fall pastries - absolutely amazing. Cannot wait to go back to Cou Cou Rachou soon :) read more
1 year ago
A favorite coffee-and-a-pastry spot in Charlottesville. Excellent pastries--and a wide range--from super sweet, to a perfect coffee pairing, to savory. They use fresh and seasonal ingredients, and you can be sure that everything is delicious. Coffee is on point too, and they've got a limited menu of fun seasonal drinks if you're so inclined. Staff is always super kind, and keeps customers moving if there's a slight line (common on weekends). There's only a tiny bit of inside seating; the bulk is outside, so this is a great pick if the weather is good! read more
O M G! This was the best coffee shop I've been to in sooo long! I don't have a favorite out in Virginia Beach yet... I wish I could pick this place up and place it on the ocean front! I would be an every day regular... I ordered the matcha, which was sooo smooth and delicious. So was the drip coffee! We ordered and shared the cardamom twist, miso chocolate chip cookie, ham and cheese croissant, and the mandarin & red currant almond danish. Nothing was left. The croissants and danish were so flakey, buttery, and soft--but WOW. That danish!! I ordered one to go lol! Those pastry chefs know what they're doing. They also have a lovely selection of wines, granolas, and spreads. I will be coming again. read more
Great bakery option in Charlottesville. With ample outdoor and awning covered seating, it feels like you are at a cafe in France. From coffee offerings, baked goods, merchandise, and more, this spot is a must try. It's no inexpensive but you get what you pay for. Highly staffed and quick service makes this a great option for a weekend morning. read more
Over the last two years I've spent a lot of time traveling to and from Charlottesville and each time I made it a point to go to Marie Bette as they were my absolute favorite cafe, however, cou cou rachou carried a fantastic reputation and had always been on my list of places to give a shot. I finally went and was not impressed. The almond croissant was not up to par and their iced latte was also just mediocre. read more
Delicious baked goods !!! Expect a wait but it is so worth it!!!! Stopped by Cou Cou Rachou for a light snack and coffee. I tried two savory pastries, a ham and cheese croissant and a savory danish (has bacon and broccoli rabe and cheese in it). Both were really good but I especially liked the savory danish. Coffee was good too, I got it with lavender syrup but wish the syrup was a bit stronger. There is limited indoor seating but a nice patio outside if you want to enjoy your food and drinks outside!! read more
5 months ago
The closest thing to French quality i have ever experienced. The baguette is authentic and very tasty, so are all their pastries. This is a true french bakery. Staff are friendly and it is just so beautiful and nice inside. I only wish they stayed open longer. read more
3 months ago
3 months ago
Finally tried cou cou rachou! We showed up late in their hours so we knew options would be limited but they had what we wanted anyways: a croissant and pain au chocolat, plus we got three canelés for each of the kids. We also got two drip coffees and took everything to go, but next time maybe we'll hang on the patio for a bit. everyone was friendly and i loved the way the bakery was decorated. Quality pastries are what will bring us back though: so delicious and you can tell they know what they're doing. read more
It's tough for me to grade this place after coming back from Paris. I wanted to compare it as my hometown version of what I just experienced. If you're looking for authentic French tasting pastries I would definitely say they hit the mark in every aspect. It was just as good as any of the ones I experienced. That being said 2 coffees and two pastries were nearly $30 which is kind of insane to me. Not to mention I was quite disappointed by the service. Not sure if it was an off day or anything as I have had numerous co workers recommend this place and even talk about how nice some of the people were here. Cannot give it a 5 stars in good faith from my lobe experience. I may try it again but definitely not on my go to places at the moment. read more
4 months ago
2 years ago
When they say come early, they mean it. Cou Cou is a classic French bakery that specializes in using locally sourced ingredients to make delicious bites that will transport you to the old world. I couldn't believe at 8 AM in the morning on a weekday this place was packed and orders were being served without hesitation. The COFFEE SODA has changed my life! A mix of cold brew, club soda and syrup (I chose lavender) it's perfect alternative to a nitro cold brew. It gave me a coffee buzz and the kick I needed to start my day. read more
2 months ago
This bakery is quite French; I saw a lot of butter in their baking area and a lot of skinny people with French accents, bringing to mind the French Paradox (in which people who eat an awful lot of bread and butter are somehow rail thin). The selection offers many treasures, but they played a bit of a cheat code on me by having a chocolate crinkle, a cookie variety I was introduced to several decades ago while visiting a different (and long-since departed) bakery in Charlottesville close to the university. I think the sign said it was gluten free, but whatever it was, I devoured it. They had some nice savory items, and I went of one of the lighter ones, a lightly braided cheese twist. Charlottesville has a lot of cafes and bakeries, but this was more crowded than most of them the day I stopped by. read more
Best pastries in Cville! It does get very crowded and there's usually not much place to sit but it's worth it. Last time I had a lemon pastry and the Meyer lemon latte and they were both very good. I love that the selection is seasonal. read more
2 years ago
This is a fantastic little bakery in Charlottesville, Virginia. They serve a wide variety of pastries, breads, drinks, and exceptional soft serve. The only downside is that their hours are very limited. I arrived around noon and they only had about 20% of their menu items left. I recommend checking their IG account for the daily menu, it will indicate at what hour items are available. While their pastries seem to be the main draw, don't sleep on their fabulous baguettes and housemade soft serve. If they have a sundae available, get it! The only lowlight was the coffee, I found it weak. Seating indoors is hot and limited. They have a nice deck with umbrellas and a decent number of tables. The ambiance isn't ideal, but you will overlook it once you taste the treats! read more
1 year ago
Cou Cou Rachou may be my favorite bakery in Charlottesville. It's got a rustic and homey feel. Most of its seating is outside and there's a large parking lot. Inside they sell wine, merch (t-shirts, hats, etc.), and other knick-knacks in addition to the pastries. A large selection of uniquely flavored pastries makes this a good place for anyone because they have a good split between sweet and savory items. Everything I've had had been delicious, no notes. read more
2 years ago
Was recommended this place by my roommate and it is fantastic!! They have a great variety of pastries and you can't go wrong with any of them! I love the chocolate and almond croissants and the canele is delicious too! I'll definitely have to come back for the bread sometime. The service is great and everyone is super friendly as well. It's a good place to stop by with some friends and was pretty walkable for me. It's a cute little shop that's very bright and open. read more
11 months ago
Coffee & homemade syrups were SO perfect. And the sourdough English muffins were chewy with the right amount of sour. I'm so glad we bought a bag to take home! But most appreciated was the staff- they were kind and patient and helpful and had smiles and warmth... not easily found in the coffee shop culture. I wish we lived closer but I'm already planning my next trip ! read more
It goes without saying that you must check out CCR if you're in the Charlottesville area. These pastries are some of the best you'll find. I was lucky enough to share with some friends so I could try a bunch. We snagged a spot on the heated patio on a Sunday morning. There was a constant stream of people coming in to order. The line moves quickly! Some of my favorites were the French onion croissant and the chocolate almond croissant. I'd certainly eat anything again, though. The butter is delicious, and surprisingly, nothing was too sweet. read more
7 months ago
There is a bakery and then there's CouCou Rachou. If you appreciate world class quality, impeccable consistency, and baking perfection, then CouCou is for you! The prices reflect the quality and talent of the team and incredible product. It's a MUST stop in Cville if you are a foodie, or anyone who appreciates real food. On par with any U.S. bakery in any major city and rivals best European bakeries we've tried. Ham & cheese croissants and almond croissants are works of art. Love the chai tea latte too - not sweetened! Just go. It's totally worth the wait and the price. read more
9 months ago
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More info about Cou Cou Rachou
917 Preston Ave
Charlottesville, VA 22903
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(434) 270-0583
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https://www.coucourachou.com
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