Boxcar Bakery — Restaurant in Essex Junction

We brought the family here on an early Saturday morning to grab a few pastries and some much-needed coffee. After hearing countless recommendations from friends and neighbors, we finally decided it was time to see what all the buzz was about — and we’re so glad we did!

From the moment we walked in, we were warmly greeted by the cheerful staff at the front counter. Their friendly energy instantly made the place feel welcoming, and the service was both quick and efficient. Despite it being early in the day, the bakery was already lively with the comforting aroma of freshly baked pastries and coffee brewing in the background.

The pastry display was absolutely stunning — rows upon rows of perfectly golden, flaky, and artfully arranged treats. The variety was almost overwhelming (in the best way possible!), and we simply couldn’t decide on just one or two. In the end, we picked out six different pastries to share as a family, and every single one was delicious in its own way. Each bite felt thoughtfully made, with just the right balance of texture and flavor.

The croissants, in particular, were outstanding — beautifully layered, buttery, and crisp on the outside while remaining soft and airy inside. My personal favorite was the Maple Pecan Roll, which was rich, nutty, and had just the right touch of sweetness. Our youngest declared the Boston Cream Croissant his favorite, saying he could easily eat ten of them — and honestly, I believe him!

The coffee was excellent as well — smooth, aromatic, and the perfect complement to the pastries. The drink options were impressive, with something for everyone. The only small critique I have is the additional $0.75 charge for milk alternatives. Since non-dairy options like oat or almond milk are now quite comparable in price to regular milk, it might be nice to consider including them at the same base cost. Of course, it’s a minor suggestion, but it would be a thoughtful touch for those who prefer alternatives.

What really makes this spot special, though, is its charming neighborhood vibe. It feels like a true local gem — cozy, friendly, and unpretentious. I love that it’s so close to where we live, and selfishly, I almost hope the word doesn’t spread too fast! It’s the kind of place you want to keep as your own little secret, where you can always count on great coffee, fresh pastries, and a warm atmosphere.

We can’t wait to return and try even more from their menu. This will definitely be one of our new go-to...

I deliver food products in Vermont from Burlington to St Albans and to the Boxcar Bakery. I've been systematically trying various coffees and just tried Boxcar Bakery's, and I must say, it was a delightful experience that exceeded my expectations. The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the espresso. It was rich, robust, and perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of bitterness to enhance its deep, complex flavor profile. Each sip was a testament to the skill of the baristas and the quality of the beans used. Without a doubt, it was the most delicious espresso I’ve had in a very long time, deserving a perfect score of 10/10. Definitely the absolute best I've had in Vermont.

But the excellence of Boxcar Bakery doesn’t stop at the coffee. The atmosphere of the cafe contributed significantly to the enjoyment of my visit. The interior exudes a rustic charm mixed with modern minimalism, creating a warm and inviting space. The use of natural materials like wood and stone, combined with the soft lighting and gentle background music, crafted a cozy ambiance that made me want to linger longer.

The staff at Boxcar Bakery also deserves commendation. They were not only professional and efficient but also genuinely friendly and welcoming. Their passion for coffee and baked goods was evident, and they were more than happy to share recommendations, which added a personal touch to the experience.

I've yet to try their baked goods, but considering the bakery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship, i absolutely will the next time I'm there.

In conclusion, my visit to Boxcar Bakery was an exceptional experience that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for high-quality coffee in a comfortable and friendly setting. It’s a gem that stands out for its exceptional offerings and atmosphere. I’m already looking forward to...

I recently stopped by Boxcar Bakery for the first time, and it was a wonderful experience. The moment I walked in, I was welcomed by a warm, inviting atmosphere. The bakery has a cozy, rustic charm with beautiful natural light, simple décor, and the comforting aroma of fresh-baked goods filling the space. It’s the kind of place where you want to sit, slow down, and enjoy every bite.

For my order, I had a croissant and a chai latte with almond milk. The croissant was perfectly flaky, buttery, and fresh—everything you’d hope for from a good bakery. The chai latte was smooth and well-spiced, with just the right balance of sweetness, and the almond milk made it even more enjoyable.

The service was excellent—friendly, attentive, and you could tell the staff takes pride in both their food and their customer experience. They made me feel right at home and answered my questions with genuine enthusiasm.

Boxcar Bakery is a gem. Between the quality of the food, the cozy ambiance, and the warm, thoughtful service, I’m already looking forward to...