Review: Boulangerie Utopie

Tell us about your first impressions when you arrived.
With a dangling sign that reads "Utopie" and delightful sandwiches and pastries lined up like jewels in the display case, this place looks like your average neighborhood bakery from the outside. But the line around the block suggests that it doles up something far better. Indeed, behind the L-shaped counter and display case, a bakery lab turns out immaculate baguettes, loaves, rolls, and pastries.

What was the crowd like?
The crowd comprises locals and a few pastry fans from abroad. Most know exactly what they want when they go in—either bread or one of the shop’s divine pastries.

What should we be drinking?
Soft drinks are available.

Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss.
Named the best bakery in France in 2016 by M6 TV channel, the shop is best known for its breads, all made with natural sourdough, its sesame eclairs, and its variety of other seasonal sweets. Skip the sandwiches and try (literally) anything else.

And how did the front-of-house folks treat you?
The staff here is always friendly, always smiling, and always eager to keep the wait to a minimum.

What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here?
A visit any time, really.