Bonjour Chérie: BOI Foodie Review

Looking for a French bakery filled with perfectly crafted delectable pastries and desserts? No need to go to France. You have it right here in the BOI.


With no coffee in my hand while driving to work, I knew I wanted to grab some coffee before I head into work. Rather than driving to my usual spots, I decided to give a local bakery a try. I remembered when one of my @boise_bucketlist followers tagged me in a photo of her while eating at Janjou, and I knew I needed to (FINALLY!) visit this hidden gem.


Nested in a small shopping center on the corner of 17th Street and State Street, Janjou Patisserie is a small French bakery with a modern decor. Named after the owner’s grandmother, Janjou gives the Treasure Valley beautifully crafted French desserts and pastries.


Maybe I missed the memo of the Friday-trip-to-Janjou’s because when I walked in, the line was out the door. It was so busy the chef herself had to staff the register! Waiting in line was actually enjoyable because I was greeted by this large glass display filled with these delectable desserts crafted with immaculate detail and to perfection. From the eclair covered with glazed chocolate, to the  Framboise Tart, covered with fresh raspberry, to my ham & Gruyere croissant.  I was imaging taking a bite of the chocolate eclair, and how it elevated my mind as a foodie Ecstasy.

Yes, delicious food can bring me to that level.


As I said, I ordered the Ham  & Gruyere croissant with a 12oz of the Americana to go. The Americana was exactly what I needed to kickoff my Friday morning. I waited until I arrived to work to enjoy my croissant. With the croissant slightly warmed up and a side of Americana, I had the best Friday morning ever!


 

Although it can be a bit pricey (croissant was $5.50), I know it’s locally owned, locally supplied, and crafted with detail and to perfection. If you happen to be driving along State Street and want to cross French bakery off your #boisebucketlist, head over to Janjou’s.


I WILL return to try the chocolate eclair. Yes, I love eclairs. If you couldn’t tell!

 

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Getting my coffee fixin’ at Frogs Fix Coffee Parlor

Thanks to you all,  I have an entire list of coffee places to try out here in the Treasure Valley. I’ll even create a checklist sometime this weekend that you all can use too.

Today I visited Frogs Fix Coffee Parlor comfortably located in the Boise Bench (thank you @domagotchi!). It’s a quaint little coffee parlor next to a daycare. At first, I didn’t notice Frog’s Fix until I walked around the corner and saw the sign. Frog’s Fix does live up to its mission of being a “welcoming environment with unique drink choices and numerous pastry selections.”

About Frogs Fix: locally owned since 2012, it has become a staple within the Bench community. The Parlor also aims to sell high quality coffee and pastries at a fair price.


When walking into the Parlor, I was greeted by this huge (and pretty awesome) map of the world. I proceeded to walk near the “Order Here” sign and excited about the options. What to get, what to get was on repeat in my head. Because I didn’t have my usual coffee during my drive to work, I defaulted to my usual order: drip coffee with a pastry side. The Parlor serves Evans Brothers Coffee, which is a first time for me trying their coffee. I had one of the stronger roasts, and I can’t think of the name! I believe Schweitzer was in the name of the coffee. Nonetheless, it was strong, delicious, and exactly what I needed this snowy morning.

Did you know: Frongner + need for coffee = the name , Frog’s Fix Coffee Parlor

Too bad all the snow was blocking the outdoor patio; otherwise I would have walked outside and snapped a photo. Only more of a reason to return this spring/summer so I can hang out on the patio.


Make sure you checkout the Parlor’s weekly specials:

  • Teacher Tuesday: offers $1 OFF any drink all day to school district employees with showing of school ID badge (a fav of mine since BOTH my parents are seasoned educators!!)
  • Happy Hour: $1 OFF expresso drinks, hot chocolates, and Italian sodas from 3pm-5pm everyday (when open)
  • Double Punch Thursday: for every drink you order, your Frog’s Fix Punch Card will received a double PUNCH! I got my Punch Card, and I’m ready to collect my punches.

If you’re wondering, no I haven’t finished that Ham and Cheese Croissant. I’m bringing it home to nibble on throughout the weekend 🙂 🙂


 

Do you have an idea for a coffee shop I should visit/checkout? Send me an email at theboisebucketlist@gmail.com.