It’s been about a week since many of us made a New Year’s resolution. I used to set unrealistic health and wellness goals like lose 10 pounds, start exercising and eating healthy, blah blah blah. But I don’t actually want to do any of those things. It’s not that I don’t think exercise and nutrition are important, because I do… sort of. I’ve just discovered that those types of goals don’t serve me. They add to the stress that can cause me to make bad decisions in the first place.
Now I prefer to make resolutions that bring me joy. Resolutions such as do less chores and read more books, or make cocktails at home with no occasion other than that life is short.
So now that we can all forget about cutting out carbs and sugar, I want to tell you about Patisserie Daniel, a French-style bakery with old-world charm.
Wooden rolling pins hang in the front window at 1729 Cook Street in Fernwood. Look beyond the abundant display of baked goods once you’re inside, and you’ll see that hundreds of bread boards and other vintage bakeware completely cover the walls.
Daniel Vokey owns and operates Patisserie Daniel, which has been in business for 30 years. He can be seen lovingly decorating desserts with his signature marzipan right behind the counter. Vokey specializes in decadent, beautiful cakes and is a favourite for weddings.
When my day has gotten off to a rough start I like to stop by the bakery for their very popular brioche cinnamon bun and eat my feelings. The bun is soft and buttery and smothered in a complex blend of spices. Quite large and generously drizzled with icing, they make a great gift for a loved one or someone you’re about to ask a favour from. If you decide to try one of these life-changing (or at least day-changing) cinnamon buns, try to get there before 10 am because they sell out fast.
Another favourite when I need something sweet is their almond croissant. It’s covered in marzipan and sprinkled with slivered almonds and icing sugar. This pastry is more decadent than any other croissant I’ve had, especially if you opt for the double chocolate version.
As for the bread, Vokey’s super seed whole wheat loaf is to die for. It’s delicious, dense, and packed with nutritional value. I’ve never had a seeded loaf I like better.
Some gluten-free options are also available, including a nicely wrapped sliced bread. It makes the perfect GF gift for yourself, or your celiac bestie, in my case. She said it didn’t even taste GF, but she can’t really be trusted as she has long forgotten the joys of gluten.
Exercising and eating better actually feel totally doable, if you count walking to Patisserie Daniel to pick up a delicious treat that is sure to brighten your day.