La Petite France Bakery
One of the deliciously gloomy days last month called for a trip to La Petit France Bakery in West Hartford Center. Despite the ominous tornado warnings, a few friends and I ventured out to seek the tasty trio of cappuccinos, crepes, and croissants. As far as I’m concerned, crepes nearly always trump croissants- and yet, much to my dismay, there were none on the cafe’s chalkboard menu (boo, hiss). I later learned that LPF has crepe specials every Sunday, so I’ll just have to wait and hope the rumors are true.
Anyway…I scanned the menu, found dozens of other treats I wanted to try, held in my disappointment with dignity, and settled on a cappuccino and a blissful chocolate-filled croissant. Warmed up a little bit, this pain au chocolat…(trying to impress my French roommate here) was so decadently rich, buttery, and flaky that I promptly forgot about the crepe miss. The pastry case is distraction enough.
Here’s a bit of background if you’ve never been: La Petite France has been around for years at its original location in Stafford Springs and opened a second shop in West Hartford in 2009. The cafe boasts a wide selection of pastries, French breads, fruit tartlets, sweet & savory croissants, and a variety of sandwiches served on the bakery’s homemade baguettes. The cafe also serves organic, fair trade coffee from Bean & Leaf in New London. Delightful.
All in all, La Petite France has a low-key vibe, lovely mural-adorned interior, and, in my experience, served as the perfect setting for a mellow coffee break with friends.
I’ll keep you posted about those crepes.
967 Farmington Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06107
Mmmmm, croissants. Mmmmm. This place has been on my “must try” list for a while and I always forget about it.
Have you ever tried the crepe dessert at Barcelona Wine Bar? Crepes filled with perfect dulce du leche and hand whipped cream, topped with cinnamon ice cream… It’s spectacular. You want to crawl inside the crepes and eat it from the inside out.
WHAT??? HOW HAVE I NOT HEARD OF THAT? Oh Jordan, that’s officially next on my list. You gave me another reason to love Barcelona.
Best chocolate croissant I have ever had. Actually, best croissant of any kind. Even though it’s probably too hot for hot chocolate, I had one as well. I am completely impressed with this place and will be back.
I’m calling dibs on a date with you here next time I’m home. This sounds incredible!
I have introduced my brother to your blog. And while he is not quite a foodie, he is indeed a food enthusiast (sp?). I’m sure his interest will in no way launch you into fame and fortune, but you are at least sharing the joy!