NOTE: This listing is for the NEWER of the 2 locations -- across from the Paseo outdoor mall, by Garfield Ave. Both locations have the same great food, but this one has the much more appealing design and atmosphere. Both are casual.
(See How I Rate below.) We've been eating here regularly for many years, both in and grabbing things to go. Most of their thousand (or maybe it's about 50) baked goods are perfection, though we have favorites. Rarely has an item been merely mediocre, and since they're always trying new things in addition to the staples, those rarely get repeated. Overall, we give their baked goods the edge over Bouchon's, though each has its specialties (the two go-to spots depending on whether you're on the east or west side). The sandwiches and salads we've tried are fresh, unique and delicious.
It's also the wonderful, warm, enthusiastic staff that keeps us coming back. This really makes a difference. After a few visits you can feel like Norm walking into Cheers here. (Sorry kids, I can't think of a more recent reference.)
Notes on some specific edibles:
The unique EGG SALAD SANDWICH: Deservedly famous. Served open-face on your choice of housebaked bread (I prefer the rosemary-currant slice for that savory-sweet thing), thin layer of pipérade-like tomato spread, mixed greens, and piled high with lovely rough-cut medium-cooked eggs with minimal sauce (none of that typical mayonnaisey mess). I recommend grinding a bit of salt and fresh pepper on it, which brings out the flavors. You tackle this dish with fork and knife. The overall balance of flavors and textures is what makes it.
OTHER SANDWICHES: Served on their excellent housebaked breads. Our favorites are the Grilled Veggie with feta on ciabatta (say Yes when they ask if you want it pressed!), Spicy Asian Pork (an incredibly flavorful bánh mì), and Seared Chicken (with hummus, roasted pepper spread and feta). The Portobella Mushroom sandwich is also good (nice balance of garlic in the pesto). IMO, the Mediterranean Chicken sandwich is a bit plain compared to the others, but some like that.
SALADS: The Seared Ahi Tuna Salad with julienned vegetables and seasoned sliced tuna cooked rare on top is a fave. Tasty dressing. Also good are the Europane salad, the seasonal (summer) watermelon salad, and their Cobb salad -- with or without freshly cooked applewood smoked bacon. All the soups we've had are good.
PASTRIES / SWEETS: Far too many, but our favorites include: spicy pear cake (not really spicy, just moist, fruity and addicting), every variation of fruit tart, bread pudding (done as a disc-shaped pastry you hold), bread pudding squares made with fruit, mixed nut cookies (no flour, just roasted nuts and a little sugar), mocha/chocolate cookies, chocolate chip cookies, seasonal pumpkin muffins (the best), etc.
BREAKFASTS: All great. Yummy French toast. The frittatas are intensely flavorful, an easy on-the-go option.
COFFEE: Good coffee from the best local roaster, Jones Coffee.
PARKING: If you can't find a metered spot right in front or round the corner, try the spaces by City Hall a block north on Garfield, or else the Paseo parking structure across Colorado Blvd.
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HOW I RATE: I award stars based on excellence WITHIN A CATEGORY -- so a taco truck and best restaurant in the country could each earn 5 stars if each is exemplary within its category. I rarely write 3-star reviews because I'm more interested in places I have stronger feelings about, which may help steer people toward or away from places based on my experiences. read more