I always try to keep from getting in a restaurant rut, and I’ve worked at this most particularly since I started writing for PlanJam. All too often though, in this gastronomic wonderland we call home, I have to stifle a desire to visit the same spot every single day, because their offerings are just that good. La Boulange was the most recent discovery of that sort, and I have to admit defeat – I’ve visited at least once a week since the first time, several weeks ago. Because where most cafés do at least something right to keep me coming back, La Boulange does it all right, every time. From the atmosphere to the food to the prices, there’s not a thing I would change.
Being a makeup fiend, there are plenty of shops on Union Street that I visit fairly regularly. Usually, I find an excuse to head out for an afternoon of shopping just before it’s about time for a little something, and that something can always be found in this cozy café, regardless of what sort of treat I’m craving. For example, I need my coffee – I know I’m not alone in this. Every morning of mine has to start with coffee. Some of them have to start with a LOT of coffee. For those days when even a LOT isn’t quite sufficient, a BOWL of coffee, also known at La Boulange as a double latte, is the only way to go. Prefer tea? Their selection includes eight standard flavors of Mighty Leaf tea with a few random rotating varieties sitting alongside the regular ones.
If I’ve already had my caffeine for the day and just need a little nibble, their pastries are exceptional. The tarts in particular come in a fantastic array, from sweet potato to tropezienne, leaving no sweet tooth unattended. If it’s time for lunch, an open-faced sandwich here is just the right size to finish off every bite without feeling sluggish and full or as though there wasn’t enough meal for the money – I’ve tried the tuna melt, smoked salmon, roasted turkey, and the club, and each one has spoiled me for the same thing anywhere else.
They make their own potato chips, which are kettle cooked to perfection, and their side salads are crisp and generous; either of these comes with each sandwich they serve. Also available are main course salads fairly overflowing with delicious ingredients, as well as a handful of brunch plates, served all day. Two soups are also on the menu each day so if you need a little warming up, try the fantastic carrot ginger or, their specialty, French onion. Don’t have time to sit and chat? Grab one of the mini sandwiches on fresh baked crusty rolls or the most adorable baguettes I’ve ever seen – the fillings could be anything from apples and brie to avocado and hummus to turkey and provolone, all sure to satisfy.
You know, all this talk about their food is making me a little nibbly… I think it might be about time for a little something. I’m sure you can imagine where I’ll be heading…See you there, perhaps?
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