Cannelle by Matt Knio — Restaurant in Detroit

Cannelle Bakery in downtown Detroit is my sanctuary, my refuge when the weight of the world becomes too heavy to bear. There are those days when the sheer insufferability of life engulfs me, leaving me searching for a glimmer of hope. It is in those moments that I seek solace at Cannelle, a place where a simple cup of coffee and a delightful pastry can work wonders for the soul.

As soon as I step foot into the bakery, I’m embraced by a warm and inviting ambiance. The aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, instantly lifting my spirits. The friendly staff greet me with genuine smiles, creating an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. It’s as if they understand the power of a kind word or a friendly gesture in brightening someone’s day.

I find myself drawn to their array of pastries, each a work of art in its own right. From the flaky croissants to the decadent cakes, Cannelle never fails to surprise and delight me with their culinary creations. Every bite is an explosion of flavors, expertly crafted to perfection. Pairing these delectable treats with a perfectly brewed cup of coffee completes the experience, making me forget, even for a moment, about the burdens that weigh me down.

What sets Cannelle apart is not just the quality of their products but the way they infuse a sense of peace and contentment into my chaotic life. It’s in this cozy haven that I realize my life is, in fact, okay. Surrounded by the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and a warm ambiance, I am reminded that there is still beauty and joy to be found even in the darkest of times.

In a world that can often feel cold and uncaring, Cannelle Bakery is a beacon of light, a place where I can momentarily escape the troubles that plague me. It’s a haven of comfort, where a humble coffee and pastry combination can work wonders on my weary soul. If you find yourself in need of respite or a gentle reminder that life can be beautiful, I wholeheartedly recommend paying a visit to Cannelle Bakery. It may just be the dose of cheer you’ve been longing for...

My first time in Detroit. I had the breakfast sandwich with the croissant, egg rounds and bacon. Very delicious. I had the mango shaped dessert. Also very good but the flavors seem to collapse the longer I ate it so next time I will alternate bites between my sweet and savory options. I also had a fresh peach croissant while at eastern market and the bacon croissant, the following day. They really know how to make amazing breads!

I am from Atlanta so I am no stranger to the impact being unhoused has. However, being treated with dignity is important. I was made aware by my friend that the downtown area has some consistent unhoused people who sometimes interfere with businesses so I understand the frustration the manager or perhaps owner felt. It still was not enjoyable to watch her call security on an older black gentleman who was not at the moment causing a disturbance.

He came and sat down and then got some water. I get that him not having adequate housing could lead someone to assume he had germs, but I watched a white patron literally wipe his boogers on a table near the window and no one came to disinfect the area while every surface the black man touched was disinfected immediately.

I look forward to coming back, perhaps place water stations outside as well so that unhoused people can get fresh water without coming in the establishment would be a good idea. Place hand sanitizer out as well and the outdoor patrons can have access to both and make a choice. If paying patrons complain, it would be great to educate them on grace, empathy and kindness and that they are free to purchase prepackaged drinks from the business if they do not want to share space with...

Update: Visit number 3+, August 2022. I'm now a Detroiter.

I still love Cannelle at least as much as I did on my first two visits. Still the same fantastic vibe; spacious, well-lit, and cozy. Still delicious sandwiches (I tried Le Saucisson this time... YUM). Still that delightful light-hearted French music that helps me think and work without getting in the way. Still good coffee (as James Hoffman would say, "it's fine", but not great. I have now tried better coffees in and around Detroit). One upgrade that I really appreciate is their addition of several cushioned chairs so your butt and back don't ache after 1-2 hours of sitting. Price-range: $15-17 for a medium americano and a filling sandwich.

Prior update: second visit, May 2021.

Disclaimer: I haven't explored Detroit's cuisine much, so this review isn't comparative with competing food venues in Detroit.

The reason I love Cannelle Detroit is the combination of (1) delicious sandwiches with a variety of cheeses and with the use of Zaatar, a herbal spice beloved to me (2) French Jazz and orchestral music, loud enough for all the noise of the world to drown in it, (3) corner location with HUGE windows, very beautifully lit, and interior design that makes it feel pretty spacious!

Again, delicious sandwiches! I took the Fresh Mozzarella with added turkey. Really enjoyed it! Pleasant coffee. I took a simple Americano. There are Americanos that one would come back for, this isn't one of them, but it's pleasant. Service continues to be very friendly.

From November 2020: Delicious nutritious sandwiches, very good coffee (dirty chai latte), and delicious dessert options! Also very friendly service! They made...