Fantastic!!! Simply put, this French-style bakery is a gem. While traveling I try to avoid the tourist traps and seek out the places locals go. This fit the bill perfectly.
Mamie Claufotis is the place where locals flock. There was a long line and we took a number at ticket dispenser just inside the door. It was actually a blesssing in disguise because the wait gave my friend and I a few minutes to decide. I went with an almond croissant and pan du chocolate. We ordered in French but switched to English when we flubbed up what we wanted to say at the end of our order. but I must say I was happy with the servicem. The staff member serving us was kind and never condescending despite our mistakes.
We wanted to order in and eat upstairs, but that was not communicated so we took our take-out order upstairs and found a quaint little cafe. We visited in the afternoon so there was sufficient seating and a quiet and calm ambience. Plenty of magazines are availavle and you brush up on your French skills through culinary and other topics. When you head upstairs you are offered a cool view down into the bakery. It was fascinating to see the bakers at work even in the afternoon preparing their delicacies.
So getting to the food... The Almond croissant wss simply delectable. I have never had such a light, flaky, sweet treat at the perfect temperature. It was slightly warm still and the layers flaked away essily. It paired perfectly with my cafe au lait. Of course I couldn't limit myself just one treat... The pan du chocolate was equally tasty with the chocolate slightly warm and the bread light and flaky as well. I prefered this to the same order at a different bakery nearby. And I would ddfinitely choose this locals over others for the quality of their baked goods.
I'm jealous of the locals who have access to such a wonderful bakery. I wish I had the same ability to shop at local, expert bakeries that create high quality products!!