Bob's Well Bread at the Ballard Store — Restaurant in California

We’ve been going to Bob’s Well Bread in Los Alamos every time we drive from SoCal to Solvang or the central coast for quite some time. Their food is amazing and the food at the Ballard location is just as good if not better. It’s exciting to have a location close to Solvang and Santa Ynez to go to without having to drive to Los Alamos. Okay, time to get to the reason for a two star deduction. The servers were pleasant but the guy running the register is extremely rude and abrasive. I grew up working in a family restaurant business for 15 years of my life and I studied food and beverage hospitality in college so I know how difficult food service can be but this attitude is inexcusable to me. I don’t know if he is the manager or an owner, and it doesn’t really matter, because he needs to take some notes on customer service or stick to the back of the house. It was not one encounter, there were three rude encounters in one visit. The main occurrence was after we ate we had gotten back in line because we wanted to purchase some bottles of wine, mugs, and to look at some other merch from the tables. My girlfriend and sister went to use the restroom while I waited in line. While I was next in line they were gathering the items we wanted to purchase and they got kicked out of an empty store and put everything back despite me being ready to checkout and up next in line. The guy couldn’t have cared less, I asked if they could come back in and tell me what they were going to get to which I was given an exasperated sigh and was told to “make it quick.” I said to forget it. The store was empty, there was no crowd and no other customers inside. A $100 merch purchase probably doesn’t matter as the place is always packed, but I would consider not returning, especially to this location, in the future just based off the...

Bob's Well Bread is a must-stop spot for anyone craving freshly baked goods and a cozy coffee break. From the moment you walk in, the charming ambiance welcomes you with its inviting atmosphere and delicious aromas.

Bob's Well Bread prides itself on offering an array of freshly baked treats, from artisan bread to delectable pastries. Each item is crafted with care, ensuring a delightful experience for every visitor. Whether you're in the mood for a flaky croissant, a buttery scone, or a crusty baguette, you'll find something to satisfy your cravings here.

While the bakery goods are undoubtedly delicious, one minor suggestion would be to offer the option to have them warmed. There's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm pastry or bread straight from the oven, and providing this option would enhance the overall experience for guests.

Despite this small suggestion, Bob's Well Bread remains a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

In addition to the mouthwatering baked goods, Bob's Well Bread also offers a selection of quality coffee and beverages to complement your treat of choice. Whether you're grabbing a quick snack on the go or settling in for a leisurely coffee break, this bakery has you covered.

Overall, Bob's Well Bread is a delightful gem that should not be missed. With its fresh baked goods, charming ambiance, and friendly service, it's the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings and indulge in a little slice of...

On the first morning in our new (temporary) home in Santa Ynez, I walked about a mile to visit Bob's Well Bread, curious to try their artisan sourdough. As an amateur sourdough baker myself, I wanted to "check out the goods". I started with the "Pain au Levain", which is their basic, naturally-leavened (i.e. sourdough), loaf. Bob himself manned the register, and when I curiously inquired as to which flours they used, he was gracious enough to tell me, and encouraged me to "keep on baking". I came home, toasted up a thick slice, slathered it with Irish butter, and delightfully confirmed that Bob's "Well Bread" is indeed, well-bred - crusty outside, chewy inside, delightfully tangy, authentic sourdough. And while the baked goods are excellent (try the canelé for a decadent treat!), the real treasures lie in the offspring of them - the menu items! We recently enjoyed a Sunday brunch, and my Mushroom Toast was a pleasant surprise, as much for the uncharacteristically moist, flavorful bisquit, as the rich, savory mushroom sauce that topped it - almost reminiscent of a Brazilian savory-sweet mushroom stroganoff. We're spoiled to live within walking distance of an iconic SYV establishment, that surely inspires others to drive for tens, if not...