Les Gourmands Bakery
Apricot Croissant Sample
Almond Apricot Tart
Almond Croissant
Apple Turnover
Parisian Chouquettes
Chestnut Croissant
Owned and operated by French expatriates, one of them a fifth generation Baker, it was with heightened expectations that Les Gourmands was entered Tuesday morning, the location at 280 5th Street a bit difficult to access by car during rush hour but at the same time resulting in high foot traffic and fresh selections continuously being baked to replete supplies.
Decorated by an artist known as Nairone, his minimalist approach allowing focus to remain squarely on Tarts and Viennoiseries spread across a lengthy counter with names and prices displayed on small stands, it was while perusing the options that a woman identifying herself as Catherine offered guests samples, the corner of an Apricot Croissant crunchy and well-laminated with just a bit of Jam adding sweetness.
Located at one of SoMa’s most bustling intersections and thus able to justify higher prices than the typical Bakery, $7.80 per Tart and $5.00-$7.00 per Croissant on par with Tartine and more than Neigbor or b.patisserie, it was after assessing the choices that nearly $30 was invested, first bites of the Almond Apricot Tart finding Preserves relegated to the center and the edges a little dried out though the flavor was pleasant.
Continuing with Fruit, a $6.40 Chausson Aux Pommes challenging Les Gourmands assertion that everything is organic and locally sourced since the interior tastes like store-bought Pie Filling, it is fortunate that the seasonal Chestnut variety fared much better as a result of toasty Cream inside crunchy, separated layers.
Apparently hiring only “zero experience” bakers according to their website, an 18-month apprenticeship intended to train new artisans while also decreasing labor costs, it was while watching one man coach another in back that the “Almond Croissant” was cut in half, the thick Custard not only unexpected but overcooked while the $1 Chouquettes fortunately lived up to their acclaim as one of The Bay Area’s best baked goods thanks to a golden exterior flecked by Sugar Pearls and a center that is eggy yet open and light.
www.lesgourmandsbakery.com
