Overall grade: Superb
Solid all-around classic French style. Serves pastry, bread, dessert, quiche and sandwich.
Ever since the first time there waiting in the long line around the corner not having seen the shop front but heard a frequent local exciting verdict "best bakery ever" with a big thumbup, it's been a staple every time passing Berkeley. Having tried almost everything^*, it's safe to say you can't go wrong there. The fundamentals including laminated dough, levain bread, scone base, canele are very well mastered and consistently executed. The flavors are locally sourced, seasonal and full of complexities yet all in harmony.
Best of the best:
Seasonal Veggie Croissant
Seasonal Fruit Croissant
Seasonal Fruit Scone
Canele