Barbara Young's Bake Shop: Goodies like Grandma makes
This new addition to Las Olas Boulevard is the creation of South Florida native, Barbara Young – a 35 year pastry chef, who opted out of retirement, and instead, chose to open her own bake shop in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Here, you can get a variety of breakfast and lunch specials, along with homemade breads, muffins, pies, cakes and cookies that are baked fresh daily.
Various sepia tones set the overall mood for this posh and sophisticated bakery. Old Florida photographs and rod iron art decorate the walls. There are several poignant signs, reminding you to laugh daily and to always count your blessings -- what a perfect way to start your day!
Smells of espresso and fresh bread greet you as you walk in the door. After you order, settle into one of the plush, leather seats and relax as you wait for your espresso/café Americana/caramel macchiato/cappuccino or tea to be brewed.
The counter is lined with tempting baked treats. Indulge with a chocolate or spinach and feta croissant. The breakfast sandwiches will keep you satisfied well into the day. Try an everything bagel, buttered, and topped with ham, eggs and cheddar cheese.
You can’t miss the display of giant muffins. A variety of flavors are available, like banana nut, blueberry, cranberry and raisin bran.
Other on-the-go breakfast selections include Barbara’s crab quiche and the shrimp and grits -- sautéed Cajun shrimp, creamy cheddar and spicy sauce.
Start of lunch with a bowl of roasted tomato basil soup and pair it with a signature Panini, which come with your choice of chips. The lobster salad, tomato mozzarella and tuna melt are all tasty options.
Barbara’s pride and joy are her baked goods, which she displays in the front showcase. Try a slice of all-American apple or pecan pie. Tarts with fresh custard and seasonal fruits make for a perfect summertime treat.
HelloMetro Tip: Barbara’s signature cheesecakes are one of her trademarks, and they are sold by the slice or whole ($3.95/$20.99). Both the original and key lime pie cheesecakes are customer favorites.
Posted by Ginny Nadolny
