Bread Basket - Hamden

I visited this restaurant for the first time on Saturday, and I loved the relaxed, local vibe it has. The owner was extremely friendly as well. When I attempted to pay with my credit card, he kindly informed me, 'Oh, we don’t accept cards. But if you don’t have cash, feel free to come back another day and pay then.' I tried a few pastries and an Italian loaf, and they all offered great value for their price. Just a heads up—they close for the summer and reopen in early September.

Incredible fresh and delicious breads and pastries! This little, unassuming shop has a few tables where you can relax with a coffee and a delightful treat. It's open from Wednesday to Saturday and closed for the entire summer. Make sure to visit when you have the chance; it’s definitely worth it!

This bakery is fantastic if you're familiar with their offerings and know exactly what you want. Don't expect to stroll in and see a wide selection of breads and pastries. The baker is well-acquainted with his regular customers, understands their preferences, and knows how much he can produce without overextending himself. I really appreciate it for what it is.

As someone of Scandinavian descent, I was introduced to the delightful Swedish cardamom braid with rock sugar at a young age. The cardamom braids served in the bread basket remind me of the cardamom coffee bread I used to enjoy with my Aunt Svea, who was born in Sweden. They bring back memories of Swedish food shops in the West Hartford and Hartford area, particularly the Viking Bakery. While others attempt to replicate this treat, they just don't compare. Many end up with a bagel-like texture that's too thick and chewy, lacking the light, fluffy, and sweet consistency of these braided breads. They truly are a hidden gem. I recommend visiting during the Christmas season to stock up on frozen braids to enjoy later!

I ordered one of those from the suitcase! Everything was fantastic. The berry muffins were packed with berries—no butter necessary. They also tasted amazing the next day!