North Shore Boulangerie

A European-style corner bakery in Shorewood

Guess what I did last weekend? Walked to the boulangerie! That's not the norm in Milwaukee, but I'm #blessed to live just a few blocks away from Shorewood's North Shore Boulangerie. Even before I walked in, I was hooked — the place certainly isn't short on curbside charm. 

Upon entering, there's the ringing of an old-fashioned brass door bell — the kind that dangles cheerfully from wrought iron. Be sure to get there early if you want your choice of baked goods. The boulangerie opens daily at 6am (until 6pm Mon–Sat, 3pm Sunday). You'll find classic breads and pastries: baguettes, buttery croissants, chocolate or almond croissants, and beignets filled with jam or chocolate.

You can also order café drinks — or stop at Stone Creek Coffee down the street beforehand (chai for the win!). Then snag a table. There are several spots perfect for two, as well as a more formal dining space and sidewalk seating (weather permitting). 

Now for the eats: I've only had baguettes and pastries at North Shore Boulangerie, and I have to say that while the pastries don't beat Rocket Baby, they are fresh-baked and scrumptious. Just maybe not life-changing. The baguettes, on the other hand, are divine. With such spot-on French bread just blocks away, my search for authentic baguettes is over. Yes, Rocket Baby boasts A+ baguettes, too — but they're not a stone's throw from my apartment. 

The moral of the story: If you live in or near Shorewood, don't ever buy a baguette from Metro Market ever again. And if you're a francophile like me, stop by North Shore Boulangerie for a pain au chocolat and that magical corner café ambiance you crave. I'm hoping to make it back to the Boulangerie for a sit-down breakfast or lunch one of these days. Stay tuned for a full report!