I really like the food and atmosphere of this restaurant. The sandwiches are nice, if a bit unimaginative and I've yet to try a dessert here that I dislike. They are a bit overpriced and the staff can be a bit rude.
This place seems to get a mixed reception: you either love it or hate it!
Yes, it's in the Byward market (and rents must be high). No, it isn't the cheapest bakery. Yes, I get that 'Obama' thing is a bit gimmicky. Some may call this a 'tourist trap'.
But these guys know their baking!
Where to begin...... the vast glass cases with tempting array of sweet and (a few) savoury options, the tasty brioche and Danishes, their home-made meat pies, fresh sandwiches.... try it all with the cheap and decent coffee- all in all, a great place for a weekend lunch in the Market.
PS-As for the service, it is fast and efficient: I am anglophone (and a South Asian) and I've never felt anything amiss (unlike some other posters here).
One of the first things you see when you enter the Byward Market - an overwhelming selection of baked goods and Obama cookies (which they are still clinging onto as their claim to fame, 8 years after the fact haha.. it's tacky yes but cute in a way). It's large and spacious, the staff are very friendly. The New York Cheesecake is great - just the right amount of softness and not too sweet. I love their eclairs. Not an out-of-this world bakery, but nice and convenient location.
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