Essence Bakery: Start the day off right

Mornings can be tough, but Essence Bakery makes them easier.

Eugenia Theodosopoulos, chef and owner, said Essence Bakery is a community of people who love good food and good company. Guests can find all their breakfast favorites on the menu, made with organic ingredients.

Theodosopoulos said what started as baking pies for her family grew into her life long career and passion. Wanting to learn more about pastry making, Theodosopoulos spent time in Paris to learn from the best.

What makes it all happen, she said, is her all-female kitchen. Theodosopoulos said she likes to work alongside women because it is a space where they all respect and help each other. She said her favorite part of owning Essence Bakery is seeing guests’ faces light up when they get a glimpse of the variety of pastries they offer.

“It puts a smile on people’s faces right away,” Theodosopoulos said. “I want people to walk away thinking that was really delicious and to feel satisfied when they leave.”

Chef Charleen Badman said she has known fellow chef Theodosopoulos for years and can see her French training come through in her pastries.

To start off, Badman had the croissant, which had flaky layers, a touch of passion fruit and a little bar of chocolate packed inside.

Badman also enjoyed the egg and cheese sandwich and oat pancakes. She said the golden, handmade brioche topped the sandwich off beautifully, and she appreciated how the pancakes included locally-sourced ingredients.

The bakery, she said, has a great energy, which comes straight from Theodosopoulos. She said the bakery is packed with guests wanting to start their morning off right.

Badman’s pro tip: Essence Bakery has a case with delicious grab-and-go meals.