Pierre & Michel Authentic French Bakery — Restaurant in Elmwood Park

Have been a loyal customer for a few years. The pastries have always been amazing. Amazing attention to detail; presentation, design, and taste. It’s clear both pastry chefs were classically trained. My opinion has changed as of recent:

I contracted Pierre and Michel to create a large birthday cake (40 people) for my daughter’s second birthday. We asked for a basic three-layer vanilla cake with chantilly cream. Upon picking up the cake, I was impressed with the appearance, although the color scheme was not what was discussed.

When the cake was cut, I was very surprised to notice the bottom layer of the cake was clearly burnt. The taste was unmistakable. Two layers of the cake were also very dry. Upon returning the cake pan, I informed the young lady of the issue with the cake. She did apologize and I left my number in case either owner wanted to discuss the cake. I made it clear I was not looking for a refund. I never received a call. If I’m spending $200 on a cake, from a place known for having top quality French quality, I at least expect a call back. Please see the photo below.

I decided to remain a customer, as the pastries are just too good; after tonight, I may need to re-think that decision. The Chef’s Speciality pastry was clearly not fresh; the cream was stiff and a film had formed on the soufflé. Also, the piping quality on the St. Honore is nothing like I received in the past.

I have no doubt both Pierre and Michel Are both extremely talented. Perhaps having untrained staff other than the owners attempting to perfect these intricate pastries isn’t the best idea?

I will likely still remain a customer, yet the quality is not the same as...

The baked goods are ok. The owner is an absolute JERK.

My wife has been ordering for this place for years. Today, we went to pick up a number cake that was promised that would be ready by 12PM. We needed a cake for a surprise birthday party at 2:30 in Caldwell but we needed to run other errands after we got the cake. We arrived at 12 and were told it wasn't ready and to come back at 12:30. Ok fine, maybe they are putting some finishing touches on it. We came back at 12:35 and it still wasn't ready. We decided to wait in the bakery. By 12:45 my family is wondering where we are. I'm explaining the situation to the front staff and finally the owner comes out and says "Sir, you can complain until tomorrow but that doesn't help make the cake quicker". Didn't even begin with an apology or acknowledgment of what was wrong.I was in no way attacking any of the staff and I think i'm allowed to voice my concern at this point. The owner continued to get louder and was literally yelling at me BECAUSE HE MESSED UP. Last I checked, the person who messes up doesn't get to be the one yelling. I feel for his staff. I get the feeling the owner just yells at everyone to get his way. The cake was finally ready by 12:55, almost an hour after the promised time frame. No one else was there to pick up their custom orders at that time. If the shop can't handle that many orders, then they should know their limits. Their cakes look good, but think twice before supporting this ego maniac who doesn't appreciate WHY he's making cakes in the...

I will never return to this establishment. While the food can be delicious at times, the service—and more importantly, the way the owner treats both staff and customers—is deeply disappointing and frankly unacceptable. I’ve personally witnessed the owner yelling at his employees in a way that no one should ever be spoken to, let alone in a professional environment. It was uncomfortable and honestly heartbreaking.

I once called ahead to ask a simple question, and the employee on the phone was extremely rude. At first, I was upset—but after what I’ve seen, I can’t even blame her. If I had to work under someone who constantly berates and humiliates me, I’d probably be on edge too.

To make matters worse, I drove over 40 minutes to the Elmwood Park location, arriving right when they opened—7:02 AM—only to be told they were out of croissants, out of baguettes, and the so-called “fresh” berry tart was anything but fresh. How does that even happen first thing in the morning?

Another time, I called to ask about a mille-feuille (which, by the way, is listed on the online menu), and I was met with a rude, dismissive tone. I was told it wouldn’t be made at all, with zero explanation—just attitude. I don’t understand how something can be listed as available yet be completely off-limits when asked about.

It’s one thing for a restaurant to have off days. But it’s another thing entirely when poor management, disrespectful treatment, and unprofessional behavior become the norm. No food is worth that kind...