Attention all fans of authentic French breads and pastries….we now have a local resource for freshly baked croissants, baguettes, macaroons and puff pastry!  Cecile Rocher recently opened Gabrianna, A French Bakery, based in her home in Rockhill Gardens.  After reading this blog, you will be ready to call and make an order!

Some background on the baker:  Cecile, from Brest, a town in Brittany in the NW part of France, was a teacher and had the itch to travel.   Working through the French government, she got a teaching job in New Orleans.  It was there she met her future husband, Thomas.  Together they moved for jobs to Washington DC.  After having twins, the family  wanted to move back to Kansas City, her husband’s home town, to be close to relatives.   Cecile has been baking since she was ten years old (she was in charge of dessert) and decided to open Gabrianna after purchasing their home in Brookside.  As she explained to me:  “In our family, we love food.  We love it for the taste and conviviality.  When I was young we would all eat together and talk about the day.  My parents and sister –we still talk about food when we speak on the phone!” 

Gabrianna opened in December and word is spreading fast  about the delicious, truly home made treats Cecile bakes.   In addition to croissants, macaroons, quiche and baguettes, Cecile makes sweet and savory puff pastry, cookies, tarts, brownies and sandwiches, plus there are some gluten free options.  Prices are very reasonable; for example, a croissant is $2 and a baguette is $3.   She will accept small orders for just a few items or cater a special luncheon or event…and she offers delivery to certain area locations.   If you check her Facebook page regularly, often she will mention she has a few goodies left at the end of the day for sale..so you can swing by and pick up a couple of fresh croissants or a baguette to enjoy that same evening.  If you do plan to make an order, Cecile requests at least a 24-48 hour notice.

Cecile absolutely loves her baking business, and her enthusiasm is infectious.  As we were talking, she often mentioned her love of baking and sharing her love of food with new people.  Try Gabrianna, A French Bakery soon and indulge in some delicious, authentic French pastries!  You can reach Cecile through her Facebook page or at 504 638 4929.  Thank you for supporting Brookside/Waldo locally owned businesses!