Some of the Canadian provinces have caught onto the fact that going from January to the March/April period when Easter finally arrives without a single day of vacation is nothing short of pure torture. Nova Scotia remains in the dark ages, but now that I am living in the enlightened province of Saskatchewan I got to experience the fabulous February Family Day long weekend. As a result, Friday evening Mr. Croissantnoisseur and I piled into the car and headed further west to Edmonton for a weekend in the big city.
We received multiple recommendations to visit The Duchess Bake Shop in Edmonton. It wasn't until mid-day Saturday that we made it there, and it was evident at first glance that if one wanted to sit down in the bakery it required either arriving upon opening, or gearing up for an intense lurk-and-pounce session in order to nab a table. The popularity is of course a testament to the coffee and food offered at The Duchess.
I opted for the dark chocolate filled croissant, and I was impressed. The chocolate was warm and semi-melted, and the pastry was flaky but not dry. I liked the sweet but slightly bitter flavour of the darker chocolate, which helped the croissant from becoming overly sweet.
Visiting the bake shop is worthwhile simply for the experience itself. The interior reminded me of Paris-meets-Manhattan upscale bakery, which is not something you find everyday in Canadian cities. I also bought a package of the macaroons, on recommendation from one of my colleagues but I am saving those for my post-work treat throughout the week. I might also have an almond croissant tucked away as well...and some florentines. Oops.
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