In Ottawa, artisanal bakeries beckon with nostalgia and innovation alike, each a portal to wonder. From the charm of the ByWard Market to the cozy corners of Old Ottawa South, these establishments tantalize with the aroma of fresh bread and pastries. Inside, a symphony of flavours awaits: crusty baguettes, flaky croissants, and also decadent cakes crafted with care and creativity. Yet, it’s not just the delectable offerings that enchant patrons; it’s the warmth of the bakers, the cozy ambience, and the sense of community that make these best bakeries truly exceptional.
There are many to choose from but here are our top six:
Art-Is-In Bakery, marries Parisian elegance with Brooklyn’s vibrant café scene and was featured on Food Network Canada’s “You Gotta Eat Here!”. Offering a medley of delights, it satisfies every craving with a commitment to daily joy. Indulge in simple pleasures: exquisite coffee, buttery croissants, and innovative comfort dishes. Helmed by pastry virtuoso Kevin Mathieson and his wife Stephanie, the bakery is a testament to their shared culinary passion, continuously striving for perfection.
Since 1998, The Wild Oat, formerly Croissant Express, has delighted patrons with quality fare. Grateful for the journey shared with customers, they continue to evolve. Crafting from scratch with premium ingredients at fair prices led to growing their own produce. Gratitude abounds for patrons’ ongoing support and contribution to this culinary odyssey.
Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana (PGI), an Italian Pastry Shop in Ottawa’s Little Italy since 1979, caters to locals and international visitors. Patrons indulge in authentic Italian flavours and traditional European treats crafted in-house by pastry chef Joe Calabro and his skilled team, using only the finest ingredients and traditional craftsmanship. Experience a taste of Europe with PGI’s fresh breakfast pastries and desserts.
Black Walnut Bakery has flourished through dedication to quality since its inception. Their commitment to excellence is evident in their from-scratch baked goods, savoury meals, and locally roasted coffee. With onsite bakers and internationally trained roasters, they ensure every product meets their high standards. This devotion, coupled with a welcoming atmosphere, fosters strong community connections.
Experience fresh, artisanal bread daily! The passionate bakers at Les Moulins La Fayette rely on artisanal methods, thus ensuring each loaf boasts a unique, delicious taste. Slow fermentation nurtures rich flavours and a golden crust, a pleasure with every bite. Explore a variety of viennoiseries, pastries, savoury desserts, and more, all crafted with care and expertise.
At Bread by Us, simplicity and deliciousness reign supreme. Specializing in sourdough breads, this bakery crafts daily staples like focaccia and ciabatta alongside specialty loaves such as Ciambelle and Kamut sourdough. Indulge in sweet treats like butter croissants and cinnamon snails, and support their community-driven pay-it-forward donation program, providing over 10,000 items to those in need.
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