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| - Lots of people rave about the french bakery spots Bonjour Brioche, Frangiapane, Clafouti, Patachou and Pain Perdue but my fav spot around town is Ma Maison (located at 4243 Dundas St. W - Royal York, across from the Bruno's plaza). I work across the street and for the first few months at my office I frequented Java Joe's for my double Americano until it finally twigged I was on the wrong side of the street. I ventured in to Ma Maison and have never stopped going.
The croissants, in particular the Almond croissant are absolute aorta chokers. Bread pudding is stellar as are all the fruit danishes, the madelines and the mini brioche buns. Prepared foods available to eat in (there are about six tables) are incredible. From cedar planked salmon to a Leek & Lobster quiche (you can pick a main and a side, prices range $6.50-$9.00). Mains vary from day to day. Side choices include things such a Wheatberry Salad, Glass Noodle Salad to creamy mashed potatoes. Daily soups are also available. The pastry case is homage to true French pastry with the clafouti styled tartes to the apple tartin. There is a take home cooler with boil in bags of such things as salmon with bok choy and veggies to Duck Confit.
Chef/Owner Patrick Alleguede is a traditionally trained chef who lives,eats and breathes the french cuisine commitment. His true speciality though is charcuterie and his pates and terrines are delicious. Be ready for a wait. Service is sloooooooooooow. There seems to be an often large turnover in his counter staff which I think had more in part to do with his wife working behind the counter. I have found her to be about as warm as an iced cappucchino but Patrick more than makes up for it. Prices are stiff, this ain't a cheap take out place and servings are tiny but you do get absolutely stellar quality. As well I noticed they posted a note in the shop about not using any food which has production in China.
By the way, you can buy the croissants frozen, proof them yourself over night and bake them at home. I did this for Christmas day, serving them at brunch, along with one of Patrick's unbelievable quiches and my family & guests practically worshipped me. Great spot for a morning coffee and a basket with a big hunk of baguette, jam & butter.
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