I originally was recommended to the Essence Bakery in Tempe by 2 friends. But we went over there on a Saturday morning and it was packed! Which is not a bad thing, but we were hungry right then, so we left. We were really excited when the Arcadia location opened up because it's a lot closer to us. We've been to this location several times and we really do like the atmosphere that fits right in with the "Arcadia style". You can walk in the front door or the back door and people will greet you with a friendly smile. We've been in enough that the owner Eugenia knows us and always makes a point to say hello to us, which we love and appreciate.
And about the food... I've had 4 kinds of croissants and they are ALL DELICIOUS. The almond croissant and the almond chocolate croissant have a really unique flavor. And for those of you who like a more savory croissant, then the Gruyère is for you. It's not covered in cheese, it's somehow folded in to the pastry.
Essence has other things as well such as Macarons and éclairs which are also very very good. In addition they have a nice breakfast and lunch menu. I highly recommend checking it out. I know we'll be back again and again.