SOCIAL MEDIA

9.12.2013

East vs. West: Coffee Shop Bakery


Hello all! I know that you all loved last week's East vs. West post (oh, you didn't read it? Shame on you.), so Abby and I are back again with another one for you! In case you haven't heard yet, Abby and I came up with this little series to share different places on the east and west coasts. Last week featured our favorite ice cream shops, and this week we are talking about coffee-ish/bakery-ish places, because let's face it: you want to go to a place that rocks both.
I have walked by this place, Vanilla Moon Bakery, literally dozens of times while working, but never stopped in for a treat until yesterday. It is located in the downtown area of San Carlos, on Laurel St. I know this place isn't in SF like Bi-Rite is (which would automatically up its cool points), but hey, I can't always be running back and forth to the city, which is what makes this place perfect. It's the sweetest little getaway, right in the middle of my every day life. Plus, I prefer to have a sidekick along with me in SF, which is not always doable, so it is nice to have a local spot I can spend some needed alone time at.
Vanilla Moon Bakery has a menu chalk-full of yummy desserts, coffee drinks, sandwiches, salads, pastries, and cupcakes. I really couldn't decide what to get. I finally settled on a vanilla latte (can't go wrong with a classic, right?) and a salted caramel French macaron. I often see people meeting here for lunch, and their sandwiches and salads look amazing! I am just dying to try them sometime.
Now, you see, I know that these petite treats are all the rage as of the past few years, but I have just not been into them. I have always admired their bright variety of colors and cute shape, but I tried some at one point and they were okay. And that was that. I never really felt another need to try them again. Until today. And boy, let me tell you, I am  now a believer. Who knew they could be so delicious?
The masterpiece that is known as a vanilla latte. As I was saying, I wanted to share a place that was strong in both coffee and bakery items. And I would say that this place nailed it. Usually you find a place that is awesome at one and so-so at the other. But, so far, Vanilla Moon has not disappointed. The latte I ordered was made with just as much care as the desserts they offer.
Like I was saying, I never really cared about these little French desserts, until yesterday. I don't know what it was about it. Maybe it was the buttery cream squished between the sugary, flakey cookies? I don't know, but I just know that I need more. ASAP. Plus, look how pretty it is!
Marly joined me on this adventure, and sat on the sidewalk like a good little pup as people bustled by.
And then this happened. Which was kind of weird. I don't even know. I guess she is a dog person? That Mar, stealing the hearts of women and children everywhere. No, really. You should come out with us sometime and see it for yourself. I especially like the bottom left photo because they are seriously smiling at each other. Look at that little grin of his.
Just look at that. Sigh. Dreamy, isn't it?
I am so happy that I took the time in my crazy week to just simply go to a new place, order a couple fun treats (guilt-free), and just be. I just sat at my little table by the sidewalk and watched the world go by for a while. Sometimes you need that, you know?

Definitely be sure to head over to Little City Adventures and see what Abby has in store for you all this week! So far, I am really excited about this series and can't wait for next week!



Jennifer Kingaard said...

Those Better Than Oreos look awesome! And I knew Marly was a ladies' man!!

Jess // Foreign Room said...

Thank you! I definitely want to go back and try all their other little goodies!!! Yummmm.


Thanks for stopping by :)

Lisa | Love To Go said...

Gosh this looks too good!!! Like the perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious treat! Oh And I LOVE those smiling dog pictures! What a cutie and soo photogenic! Happy weekend, Jess!

Irene @ Away from Tenerife said...

This place looks great and my mouth is watering at the sight of those macaroons!
Great photos and nice blog :)
Have a lovely day!