Red House Sweets and Catalyst Coffee Bar are by far the ultimate combo - if you’re looking for some of the BEST pastries you have ever tasted as well as the best coffee anywhere in this whole area of Vermont, look no further!! Both places share the same space with separate counters, and you’re going to want to get things from both. Red House Sweets has an amazing selection of pastries and desserts, and many gluten-free options as well! I absolutely love the orange cardamom croissant - I don’t know what they do to make it, but it’s definitely in the top 5 best single pastries I have ever had in my whole life. I also love their kouign-amann as well!! These are both must-trys if you’re looking for something sweet. Honestly though, everything looks incredible. All the croissants, the focaccia, cakes, tarts, and so on would be so worth trying. I guess I gotta keep coming back to try it all!! Also, I want to give a special nod to the person working behind the counter. She was so upbeat and friendly and made the vibe of the place so much better. This place really is something special and I highly recommend visiting next time you’re in St. Albans!!!
EDIT: We finally came back after waiting a whole year to come to Vermont - Red House Sweets was just as good as we remembered! Absolutely phenomenal place - this will be a tradition for us every summer! Maddy (I think that’s her name) was still there and still as awesome as she was last year. You need...
   Read moreThis is my favorite bakery OF ALL TIME!! I bakery/coffee shop hop a lot and this one takes the cake. The food is incredible, whether you are eating in or taking out! My go-to is one of the many flavors of quiche, with a maple cinnamon bun! My husband' is obsessed with the maple cheesecake and the chocolate and cashew tart. ALL so good! But I have made so many different mouth-watering choice over my time spent here and it is all absolutely incredible.
And then there is the staff!! Maddy is the single kindest and warmest human being in all the land. I have never once been met with anything but a huge smile and a chipper "Hello!" They are excellent at their job and truly go the extra mile, heating up items to eat there and even walking them over to the attached coffee shop (Catalyst Coffee Bar, see my wonderful review about them too!!) for me.
When I dine here, I feel so welcome and taken care of. I will keep coming back forever and always! The cozy wingback chairs next to the window have my name on it while I do my classwork, or work on a project for work (see my picture of me creating a flannel board piece for storytime while I eat my fav quiche, haha)!!
Now.... breakfast...
   Read more10/10 — A Must-Visit for Any Pastry Lover!
From the moment you walk through the door, you're greeted by the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked bread, warm yeast, and just the right touch of sweetness in the air — it's pure heaven. The baked goods here are simply out of this world. The macarons literally melt in your mouth, delicate and perfectly balanced in flavor. The croissants — no matter which variety you choose — are flawlessly layered, buttery, and crisp on the outside while staying soft and airy on the inside. They're a true testament to skilled baking.
Not only are these pastries visually stunning, but the taste and texture deliver on every promise. It’s clear that every item is crafted with care and precision.
And the service? Absolutely top-notch. The staff is warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about what they do. They make the whole experience even better — the cherry on top of an already perfect visit.
Highly, highly recommend. I’d give it more than 10 out of...
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