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| - This is easy. Five stars. No question in my mind.
I was on a recent trip to Montreal and lucky enough to find Mamie Clafoutis near my hotel. The first morning I wandered up Saint-Denis not knowing where the store was, then all of a sudden, I saw the fresh-baked goods through the window and my heart raced. I know it's odd to get so excited but I enjoy baking as a hobby and this felt like coming to church.
When I walked in, I saw breads and pastries of all varieties. I saw croissants stacked on plates, some plain, some drizzled and filled with chocolate, some filled with pistachio, and so much more. I saw things I hadn't seen before, but knew I wanted to try. To my left I saw many kinds of bread including a beautiful bunch of fresh baguette. I'm ready to order.
This first day, I went simple and ordered a plain croissant. I've made them at home before and know the painstaking process it is to develop the layers, while also watching the temperature of the dough and not letting them over-proof. If done correctly, the result is a crispy shell that nearly explodes with flaky layers of outer shell and a delicate soft interior that tastes of rich dough with each bite. I'm drooling just thinking about them now 8 days later. I matched the croissant with a simple cafe Americana. Just perfect. I also got a pistachio and chocolate-filled croissant for later. Also perfect.
During my 6 days in Montreal, I came here 4 times. Every time was memorable and on a quality I have not had in a bakery at home. While I wish Richmond had such a place, I will keep Mami Clafoutis in my heart as my Montreal bakery.
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