The first time I met the owner of JW pastry I was at a farmers market and purchased these flaky cheddary straws and some other pastries. I was immediately sold. I kept the business card attached to the goods and I went to bakery and won't go anywhere else for my croissants (and I am an avid foodie, particularly in the world of baked goods). I have tried several pastries from several bakeries in several counties even out of state and this is one of my favorite bakeries so far-- and here's why:
Ambiance: The bakery is located in a plaza (on the corner) and there is ample parking to choose from. A while back they shared their inside space with another company but I'm happy to know they're growing and expanded to have the entire place dedicated to the bakery. They always have new menu items and special items for holidays or the weekend. They have also expanded on their menu items to include things like breakfast sandwiches and pizza. They have a nice little space, (looks like a patio) to sit down and enjoy your food there. If not they have a small area with a counter and some stools inside but it will only fit 2-3 people. It has two displays one containing quiches and items like mousse desserts or cakes and the other side is primarily pastries such as croissants, cookies, danishes. They also have loaves of breads. It is a small cozy atmosphere. You get to see the magic being done behind the displays.
Service- Always friendly. There is always someone there to immediately attend to you. It doesn't matter who it is the customer service is on point. The nice thing is they always try to get to know their customers. They also offer suggestions and they don't rush you if you don't know what you want. If you don't know what something is they will explain it. The whole experience is pleasant from beginning to end. If you order hot food they are always kind enough to bring it to you and if things take a little longer than usual they will apologize for any delay (even though food always comes out with good timing)
Now, the best for last, food!- I think I have tried every category of food over the years.
Cheddar straws- flaky, good flavor, sesame seeds for texture. Great for a charcuterie board option or sample.
Croissants- hands down one of the best. I've tried other over hyped instagram bakers but this croissant takes the cake. Layers of flaky outer crust followed by a beautifully laminated and light bite in the middle. It taste fresh and is perfectly baked.
Chocolate croissant- just as good and just as flaky with a dark chocolate center and the right amount of sweetness.
Kouign amann-it's hard to recreate this one and it's one of my favorite pastries. Salty, sweet, and buttery. Good lamination and a caramelized bottom. It's kind of hard to find this one anywhere else so I'm glad they offer even the lesser known pastry items.
Pizza- they have a variety of pizzas. If you like kind of a deep dish pan style pizza with unique combinations you should give them a shot. They are a little denser than what I'm used to but I feel part of it is because they don't skimp on the toppings. I had a pepperoni hot honey pizza.
Danishes- these are up there for me because they have a savory one with cheese, ham, a bechamel sauce, with a nicely fried egg on top and some herbs. They're pretty and they're sooooo good. Everytime I do visit I ALWAYS get one of these if available.
Their mousse deserts are very aesthetically pleasing and they always have new items popping up. Some have been amazing, others I did not prefer but overall I'm sure if I wasn't crazy about it, it's because of personal preference and not because of quality.
I have tried many other items but this review would be pages long.
Overall, this clearly will always be my favorite bakery or extremely difficult to top and I am sad I am no longer local but I want to make sure they get their credit where it's due. They deserve it. read more