Monday morning, the food news crew over on Eater Boston announced that Cafe Madeleine was open. That gave us a route for our dog walk du jour.
As we approached from the shady side of Columbus Avenue, a chef in whites was visible in the doorway. That was the first indication that this was a place that takes pride in their food preparation.
The sandwich board sign tells the story of a place with some savory and some sweet items.
Inside, Penny spotted some of our favorite items from the shop owner's time at our favorite Cape Cod Cafe, BP Boulangerie in Wellfleet. We carried home three giant oatmeal cookies filled with dried fruit, two lovely croissants, and a lemon tart.
Many pastry chefs can make something look good, but it takes real talent to make it look good and taste wonderful.
Balancing the sweet and tart in something like this lemon creation is obviously not easy. Cafe Madeleine delivered a big punch of pure lemon zing with just enough sweet to balance it.
We will walk over often to get a few of these croissants.
This was opening day. They are learning their way around new suppliers, new equipment, a new kitchen, new ovens, and they're producing a great product. Just imagine what they can do when everything falls into place for them.
To the Cafe Madeleine team, we say, "Welcome to Boston." The staff was great! They had the answers to the questions Penny asked, and the service was prompt and professional.
You'll find Cafe Madeleine at 517 Columbus Avenue on the corner of Greenwich Park. (map)
What's on your Food Lover's shopping list? Shop Amazon for all your kitchen & dining needs
Details:
Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2014 Penny & Ed Cherubino
, Rhubarb soda, and– when she makes them–