Julien Boulangerie — Restaurant in New York

To start, I wanted to try this place out through TooGoodToGo. First thing that went wrong is that I was waiting in line, the owner cashier did not greet me or say hello. Fine I thought, he’s busy. I look around and wait. A man comes in, he’s white, and right away the owner greets him and says he’ll be right with him. Okay, so the owner treats people differently by race. It’s worth noting this place is rather small, so it’s fairly noticeable to make out who entered or is standing in line.

Once I was next, the app was giving me issue so it took 30 more seconds than usual for me to pull up the order confirmation. When I did, in a nasty and condescending attitude, he said to me “looks like you finally figured out how to work the computer.” Absolutely uncalled for, not necessary, and what a loser comment.

You could tell he felt better about himself because he made his comment with a smirk. I wish he would put as much effort into his poor humor, as he could into creating a welcoming customer service for all New Yorkers. Good pastry shops in NYC exist by the dozen. People come back to restaurants not only if it’s good food, but if you feel welcomed to return.

This is too bad because restaurants and shops close often in NYC, and it’s sometimes when owners like these, fail to realize how to keep customers from coming back.

One out of the three pastries was good. Hopefully the owner can work on being less rude + racist and more cordial. Won’t hold my...

As someone who grew up surrounded by a wide variety of authentic French baguettes, I may be a bit "exigent" when it comes to judging one, but I found Julien Baguette a bit underwhelming. While the taste was decent, the bake wasn’t quite there for me, it lacked the golden crispness and structure I’ve come to expect from a traditional French baguette. The shape also felt off, not quite capturing the slender, elegant lines of a classic baguette.

To be fair, in the U.S., the word "baguette" often gets used more for its French flair than its authenticity, and many customers may still find this one satisfying. If you’re not too picky about technical details, it might hit the spot. But if you’re chasing the exact texture, crust, and chew of a true Parisian boulangerie, you might be left wanting.

The store itself is inviting, clean, and aesthetically pleasing, and it's clear they take pride in the overall branding. However, it doesn’t seem like baking is done on the premises, which might explain the lack of freshness or artisanal touch.

With so many options for baguettes in the city, and of course, in France—this one didn’t quite do it for me. I won’t be going out of my way for a second try, but I do appreciate their effort to bring a taste of...

You know that feeling when you take a chance and stumble into a neighborhood spot that turns out to be amazing? That is Julien for me. I'm just upset that I didn't find it sooner than last month - and I've already been 4 times!

Such an unassuming little spot with beautiful French pastries (and decor that's kind of like punk?) There's really only enough room for the pastry case, a little fridge with French delicacies (yogurt, juice, pates, meats), and you thoughtfully debating whether it would be too much to eat 3 pastries for breakfast.

So far, my absolute favorite is the berry fruit tart. What they do to those berries to make them so.... berriful? Juicy, plump berries piled onto soft custard in a super flaky shell. Definitely get one of these. Also enjoyed the ham & cheese croissant, the almond croissant with chocolate and hazelnut (absolutely delicious and very filling), and pistachio croissant (although fair warning there's a lot of pastry cream).

Pastries have always been very fresh, and the people there are so nice. Definitely stop by if...