Fourniers Bakery Cafe — Restaurant in Pacific Grove

While I initially walked into this café searching for pastry sustenance, I received much more than I initially expected. Upon first walking and I was greeted with a smile from ear to ear by a jolly old fellow. While, I don’t know his name, I believe it could be Edwin since Edwyn, in English, means Happy Friend. I felt cordially invited in and began to peruse the pastries. The owner, jovial as ever, walked me through each pastry. In fact, he gave me a brief backstory of each one, an apple danish which he had tasted with his first love, Keylime pie from grandma‘s kitchen. A chocolate chip cookie that a best friend shared before the war, devil’s food cake, the dish that was served at his mother's funeral. While Edwin elaborately spun tales, I grew a connection to each pastry. These baked goods are more than food; each indicates a unique story and experience. In the end, I chose an array of delightful treats. With a twinkle in his eye and a grin on his face, Edwin handed me the bag. Upon leaving the store and reflecting now, I realize I’ve received much more than just simple pastries. I received a connection, an experience, and, most notably,...

This rating applies only to our own experience of course. This 'bakery' was completely empty of all baked goods when we were there in the morning and the explanation was that the baker was 'off today'. The completely empty shelves looked quite forlorn but there were some customers enjoying sandwiches outdoors so we ordered a panini and half sandwich and they arrived after a while and were quite tasty if on the sparse side. They were advertised as coming with 'chips' and we thought that might mean french fries but turned out to be a small collection of tasty potato chips. This place is in an excellent location which deserves somewhat better than it gives...

On the road, I was looking for a blueberry muffin. Popped into Fourniers and was not expecting much as the ambiance is unremarkable. I purchased a blueberry muffin and then saw olallieberry muffins in a nearby case. I asked proprietor which was better - blueberry or olallieberry and he recommended the olallieberry, so I also purchased an olallieberry muffin. OMG -- the olallieberry muffin was superb!!! Loads of fruit -- not too sweet -- just the right size --- it was amazing! Blueberry was better than average, but if I'm ever in the area again, I'll be getting the...