Best Of: Bakeries – Cadeaux Bakery

The bright, whimsical space at 172 Powell Street houses Cadeaux Bakery, the bakery/cafe child of two ex-Chambarites, Eleanor Chow and Salvita Johnson. 

The two creative kitchen-istas opened Cadeaux Bakery in the Gastown/Railtown district in late January 2012, quietly operating its in-house bakery with little fanfare. Every aspect has a touch of whimsy, from the miniature pedestal shelves showcasing minimal decor to the at-home feeling of the bakery counter viewed through the window.

Everything is baked onsite, and they offer a selection of baked goods (with gluten-free options), munchies and frozen treats, including:

• lemon goat cheese cheesecake
• London fog cake
• filled scones (dark chocolate, goat cheese and dill, or almond)
• sticky buns (maple and bacon, toffee and pecans)
• sandwich cookies
• brioche croutons
• bread pudding
• Cup of Goodness (cake in a cup, seasonal flavours)
• truffles (lime bourbon, raspberry, salted caramel pecan)
• spiced nuts
• granola
• frozen treats (milk chocolate lavender ice cream, caramelized pineapple frozen yogurt, pink lemonade sorbet)

The industrial-esque bakery in the back half of the space is clearly visible from the cafe, contrasting with the modern, European-inspired display counter. Aromas of freshly-baked goods may influence the beginnings of a sugar addiction.

(I have never had anything with banana taste so complex and flavourful. Copa banana, a layered delight. Creamy, moist, rich…pictured below.)

Cadeaux’s location may be the reason why it hasn’t been overrun by the typical mainstream crowd that usually frequents, shall we say, Starbucks. But those willing to walk a bit further  on the search for great eats won’t be disappointed.

And for a little incentive: any order of six or more pastries and your purchase is tax free!

Cadeaux Bakery is open Tues-Fri from 8am – 6pm and Sat-Sun from 9am – 5pm.

Bon appetit!

~ AV