With Valentine’s Day just around the corner and Austin’s restaurants filling up with dinner reservations, why not switch things up this year and opt for a charming breakfast or lunch date to celebrate the holiday of love? And where better to evoke romance than the enchanting streets of Paris? Discovering French-inspired bakeries in Austin can add a touch of elegance and delight to your Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) celebration. Here are seven exquisite bakeries to explore with your loved one.
Rocheli Patisserie
1212 Chicon Street, Suite 102 | The first thing you’ll notice at this petite French bakery and coffee shop in east Austin is the Insta-worthy interior. From the neon “Bonjour Austin” sign that greets you to the faux flowers lining the walls and the Parisian cafe-sequel tables and chairs. Then you spot the display of exquisite pastries: specialty croissants, eclairs, macarons of various colors and flavors, seasonal cupcakes, and the most beautiful tarts topped with meringue, fruit, and a touch of glitter. Rocheli also offers high tea service complete with an assortment of French sweet treats, tea sandwiches, and decadent scones.
The Rose Bakery by Julie Myrtille
1000 Research Blvd Ste. 123 | This is the second Austin bakery from acclaimed French pastry chef Julie Myrtille. The arboretum area location stands out from surrounding businesses with its bubblegum pink exterior and cafe tables and chairs set up out front. The bakery specializes in authentic pastries like croissants and macarons along with breakfast and lunch options including sandwiches, crepes, and quiches. Don’t skip out on Myrtille’s delicious homemade jam too!
La Patisserie
602 W. Annie St. & 7301 Burnet Rd ste 102 | The authentic French bakery has two Austin locations to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy cafe in Paris. Enjoy a cup of coffee with a flaky croissant or one of Owner Soraiya Nagree’s signature macarons. The packaged macarons make a great gift as well. La Patisserie also offers catering for special events. When visiting the Annie street location, don’t forget to snap a pic in front of the ‘Bon Appetit, Austin’ mural out front!
Baguette et chocolat
12101 FM 2244 Bldg 6 | This popular French artisan bakery is located in Bee Cave. The baguettes and croissants are made from scratch daily, there’s a variety of fine pastries, and a breakfast and lunch menu featuring quiches, salads, and sandwiches. The bakery often sells out, so make sure to place your order early! And check out their heart-shaped macarons for Valentine’s Day!
épicerie
2307 Hancock Drive | This French meets Louisiana bakery and bistro is tucked away in the Rosedale neighborhood. The bright and cozy space from Sarah McIntosh has been a neighborhood favorite for years. The bistro offers a menu of French-inspired dishes but also includes a pastry case and charming little bar. And just announced, épicerie now offers baguettes.
Bakery Lorraine
11600 Rock Rose Ave #100 | This nationally recognized pastry shop, famous for its colorful macarons, is located on Domain Northside’s Rock Rose Ave. Along with a variety of mouthwatering pastries, the bakery serves breakfast, lunch dinner, and wine and has a large seating area. The bakery is currently offering a bouquet and macaron Valentine’s gift available for pre-order.
Heaven’s Bistro Bakery
2205 West Parmer Lane Ste. 100 | The French bakery and bistro in North Austin serves handmade desserts and pastries. The inviting space features a giant Eiffel Tower on the wall along with a large display case of baked goods. Heaven’s also features halal pastries and takes custom cake orders