"Into each life some rain must fall" (Ella Fitzgerald and The Ink Spots)…read more
What does rain symbolize in the arts? Is it sadness, rejection, or despair (as Ernest Hemingway evoked in "A Farewell to Arms") or is it rebirth, emotional cleansing & relief, and happiness (as in that "most romantic movie ever", The Notebook, towards which my feelings approximate its Rotten Tomatoes score... of 52%)?
Regardless of your feelings and emotional state of the day i.e. treating dessert as an indulgence or as food therapy, I believe Sweet Rain deserves to be a part of your experience as either a local or a tourist in Bergen - and I'm mystified that I'm the first to review (on yelp) this fine Nordic inspired French themed patisserie... or, is it a French inspired Nordic patisserie?
As I peered over the extensive sweet selection, a veritable downpour, of delectable treats in this confectionery store and café, it didn't help my decision process to spot a spinach pie that hinted at the Bulgarian heritage of the owner(s). But, it certainly helped me balance the salt/sugar ratio of my diet for the day. I also picked up a selection of distinctive cookies for my friend's family - and they spoke glowingly of the Lemon and Lavender cookies, brown cheese cookies with white chocolate, and the almond shortbread.
But, I was here for the pastries - and sampled many during my stay in Bergen. I would think an interpretation of the Chocolate Souffle or of the Trio petit cake is almost ubiquitous at French themed patisseries worldwide, and so one can probably skip those in favor of a dessert unique to Sweet Rain. Of those, I particularly liked the aesthetics and flavors of Passion and Desire (passion fruit mousse with chocolate), Caramel Sun (caramel mousse, pretzel base), and Thea (named after the owner's daughter: (70% chocolate, orange marmalade, nougat, and Hazelnut biscuit). But, I could just as well recommend the brown cheese cheesecake that's unique on account of the primary ingredient.
Sweet Rain has a lot to offer. I don't expect everyone to fall in love with their croissants or other viennoiseries (I wasn't tempted and focused instead on the cakes); some may love their macarons, others may not. But, you will surely find it a unique experience in Bergen: warm and relaxing for those seeking a break from their travels, open kitchen for the curious, breadth of selection for the greedy (like moi), minimalistic but beautiful aesthetic for those demanding both form AND function, free wifi, friendly and knowledgeable service, and far from the madding crowds (perhaps explaining my FTR). But, your walk here will allow you a glimpse of one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Bergen across the water. That much is not up for interpretation, or debate. I know you don't have too many data points, but trust me on Sweet Rain... (4.5 stars rounded up)