This is not your local cafe hangout. Come to think of it, I don't even think they sell coffees or any other beverage. There are no seats, no tables, and only a little bit of standing room.
But this is HEAVEN for all carb connoisseurs.
Most of the building seems to be dedicated to (1) on-site equipment and (2) a small storefront where goods are prettily displayed behind a glass wall. And then a teeny, tiny area where you stand in line and salivate as you await your turn. Trying to decide what to get is difficult, since you don't get to see what's actually available until you get to the front of the line, and then you have to make some quick decisions while the rest of the line waits and harrumphs behind you.
I've had a ton of their croissants (the regular was flaky and delicious, the almond tasted like millions of almonds died in the making of it, and the flan was just as if a plate of flan and croissant had a baby). The beloved kouign-amann is a croissant-like flaky pastry with a creme brûlée crackling top. The monkey bread is hopelessly moreish. Suffice it to say, I've been eating my way through Balthazar little by little, and nothing has disappointed.
If you're in the area and consider yourself a lover of bread or pastry, this is a must-visit. Parking is extremely limited, but there's a high turnover rate of cars since most people are leaving right after they purchase. Lines can be long, but move...
Read moreIf I could I would give this place 0 stars. I’ve been coming here since they opened up. I stopped at Balthazar’s Bakery where I noticed the women taking only my Gazettes from the front which I had ordered 4. I have never witnessed this before and since it was goat cheese I thought it was strange. I mentioned I wanted it from the back which I was told that they didn’t have any more. However, I noticed a lot of customers ordering and the other ladies pulling from the back. Well, when I got home I tasted the cauliflower once which tasted rancid and the goat cheese one tasted like potato chip dip. I called in which they asked if I left it in the car? Mind you I ordered at 1pm and it was only 2pm.Well here in Jersey it’s 19degrees which is colder than some refrigerators, so I’m not sure what that comment was . I was asked if I heated It. As this was my fault. I spoke to Pauline who told me she tasted everything and everything was good. You just didn’t like it. However, three of us took a piece and all came to same conclusion. It was bad!! They are rude! And will never...
Read moreIn the charming, bustling setting of Balthazar Bakery on S Dean Street, Englewood, my partner and I discovered a haven of French-inspired delights. This compact bakery may be small, but it offers an extraordinary selection of baguettes, croissants, and fruit tarts that transported us straight to Paris. As we entered, the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries enveloped us, setting the perfect romantic tone for our morning. The display was brimming with beautifully arranged treats, each more tempting than the last. We decided to indulge in a variety of items: a plain croissant, an almond croissant, a pistachio cookie, and a buckwheat hazelnut bouchon. Every bite was a testament to the bakery's commitment to quality and flavor. The service was impeccable; the staff, particularly the hardworking ladies at the front, managed the morning rush with grace and professionalism, ensuring that each customer felt valued and welcomed. Whether for a quick treat or a leisurely breakfast, this bakery is worth every moment...
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