Croissants and Pâtisseries to Die For

I had just returned home from an amazing month abroad, travelling through France and Belgium, enjoying their wonderful vennoiseries – those tasty, buttery treats such as croissants and brioches. In fact, it was the morning after my return flight and I was craving some of that golden goodness. Lucky for me, I live just a short drive from one of Toronto’s best French pâtisseries – pastry shops –  Duo Pâtisserie & Café. So I hopped in the car and paid a visit to fulfill my craving.

I had learned about Duo a few months earlier while listening to CBC Radio’s morning show. One of their guests that day had decided to determine which of Toronto’s pâtisseries baked the best croissant. So he compiled a list of the best French bakeries in the city and one morning, with the help of some friends, visited all 22 of them, purchasing croissants from each. He then performed a blind taste-test and Duo came out on top. Needless to say, I was delighted to discover that it’s located in my neck of the woods.

I arrived at the pâtisserie just after it’s 10 a.m. opening time to find the place buzzing with customers. Some were already settled in the café with a vennoiserie and coffee in hand while others were lined up eyeing the treats laid out on the pastry counter. One man seemed hardly able to contain his excitement at the thought of enjoying one of the freshly-baked delights in front of him. For along with the vennoiseries, Duo also produces a selection of beautiful and delicious French pâtisseries – pastries – to rival their Parisian counterparts as well as a selection of scrumptious-looking chocolats – chocolates. I could totally relate.

So much so that when it came time for me to order, I couldn’t stop with just croissants. I was also tempted by a gorgeous-looking Gruyere and cheddar brioche. And of course, I couldn’t leave without a pâtisserie. Decisions, decisions! Duo’s selection ranges from traditional favourites like Tatin, Mont Blanc and St. Honoré, to newer creations such as Nova and Rockee. I settled on the delicate-looking Avery, a wonderful concoction of Earl Grey mousse, rose cheesecake, vanilla sponge perfumed with strawberry, and raspberry cream, all on a crispy base and surrounded by a swirl of pink chocolate, then topped with a raspberry and a rose petal. The fact that it reminded my of Ladureé’s famous Ispahan may have influenced my decision.

As I made my way to the door to leave, I exchanged a knowing glance with the man I had noticed earlier, each of us smiling at the delights we were about to enjoy. And the croissants, they definitely live up to their billing: a crispy golden exterior with countless buttery layers inside – heavenly! Duo definitely gets my vote.

Duo Pâtisserie & Café  230 Commerce Valley Dr E #4, Thornhill, ON L3T 7Y3