The best local baguettes

By Anne Rucker Tue., Jan. 25 2011 at 12:05 PM

Anne Rucker

Five noteworthy baguettes baked right here in the Twin Cities.

Ah, the perfect baguette. What may seem to some a simple loaf, the baguette is deceptively complex, with its flaky, crispy outer crust and tender, slightly sweet interior. The Twin Cities are ripe with artisan bakeries scratch-baking delicious, authentic baguettes. Here are five of the best:

Anne Rucker

RUSTICA BAKERY

It's been hard not to notice Rustica's rise as one of the Midwest's most acclaimed bakeries. Led by head baker Tammy Hoyt, Rustica makes a great traditional baguette. Perfect in its simplicity, the baguette has that delicate, crispy outer coating we crave from great bread, with a flavor reminiscent of buttered toast. Delicious.

3220 W. Lake St., Minneapolis
612.822.1119

Anne Rucker

TURTLE BREAD COMPANY

This familiar breakfast and lunch mainstay has been turning out quality breads and pastries for years, and its traditional baguette does not disappoint. The wonderfully crusty exterior gives way to a light yet chewy center. Perfect for dipping into Turtle Bread's famous tomato basil soup.

(3 locations)
4762 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis
612.823.7333

3421 W. 44th St., Minneapolis
612.924.6013

One Financial Plaza (Skyway level), Minneapolis
612.455.2552

Anne Rucker

PATISSERIE 46

Since opening in July, Patisserie 46 has been churning out exquisite pastries, desserts, and artisan breads in its bustling Kingfield neighborhood location. One of its best offerings is the 46 baguette. Chef John Kraus adds a touch of rye to this slightly untraditional baguette, giving it a depth of flavor unlike any other we tried.

4552 Grand Ave. S., Minneapolis
612.354.3257

Anne Rucker

SALTY TART BAKERY

From its small space in the Midtown Global Market, the Salty Tart Bakery is creating an amazing array of savory and sweet pastries and breads. Perhaps one of James Beard Award-nominated chef Michelle Gayer's most exceptional offerings is her traditional baguette. It manages to be crispy, chewy, moist, and toasty all at the same time. Buy one at the Midtown outpost or pick one up in the cheese shop of Lake Wine and Spirits.

Midtown Global Market, 920 E. Lake St., Minneapolis
612.874.9206

Anne Rucker

LUCIA'S TO GO

This Uptown gem has been mastering the art of locally sourced, seasonal, and delicious take-home dishes since opening in 2005. Next time you stop in for takeout, be sure to grab one of the amazing baguettes. They're hearty and flaky, and have just a hint of sourdough flavor. Like all of Lucia's offerings, they are not to be missed.

1432 W. 31st St., Minneapolis
612.825.9800

Tags:

Baguette, Lucia's To-Go, Patisserie 46, Rustica, Salty Tart, Turtle Bread

We Recommend

StPaulSteven

You can get Michelle's (Salty Tart) at Golden Fig on Grand Avenue, and sveral places carry Rustica's--I know Coastal Seafood on Snelling does.

Eric

Heh. As soon as I posted that, I realized that somewhere on University would likely be getting the nod.

A coworker occasionally brings in croissants from Trung Nam, and they are insane good. I looked them up online, and while they have no website, I did see multiple reviews that said "better than I had when I lived in France" or "better than I had when I visited Paris", so I think I finally have to visit.

Anne Rucker

Anyone else have any favorite baguettes in St. Paul or elsewhere that I missed? If so, please comment!

Anne Rucker

Eric, try Trung Nam French Bakery (739 University Ave. W, St. Paul). A bit less "traditional" because I think it is made with a bit of rice flour, but very tasty. Thanks for the comment!