Le Pain Quotidien

This gem sits on the busy Ventura Blvd. just a few steps from Il Tramezzino.  With eleven franchises in the Los Angeles area and fifteen in New York, this little shop is on the move.  Although the company is large, with franchises all over the world, the feel inside is that of a well run, privately held cafe. 

On my first visit the cheese plate was disappointing but what I really loved is the coffee.  Served similar to the fashion that Cafe Fanny serves their coffee, in a bowl, the rich cream and great brew just lit up my face.  Add a touch of sweet agave nectar (instead of sugar) and I'm a happy 'yamper'. 

What I still haven't tried yet, and what everyone craves and raves about is the open-faced sandwiches that they serve.  They call them Tartine's and hey really look appetizing.  The salads are good and the pastries are good as well.  I often go in on a Sunday and the consensus has been that they don't bake their bread on Sundays because it always seems day old.  I may be wrong but that's what it seems like.

The brand itself is strong.  The logo is on almost everything, from the Jams and Nut Butter on the table to the salt shaker & pepper mill.  The franchising opportunities are are available but usually a region is granted permission on an exclusive basis as long as the performer performs as required.