I can't remember when or how exactly I stumbled into Bella Dolce, but I am supremely delighted to have discovered it. Situated in a tiny little storefront in Madison Valley, dwarfed by local giant Essential Baking Co. almost next door, it's easy to pass by.
I've been there a few times, and I'm eager to go back and try more of their luscious buttery pastries and fine espresso. They're only about three tables in the cozy but cramped storefront, and you can see right into the little back kitchen where the staff (always attractive young women, but maybe I just have a weakness for women in smocks and covered with flour) studiously works away.
The offerings are limited and delicious: usually a couple of scones, a gallette or other daily pastry, some apple cinnamon rolls, a few muffins and sweetbreads, and some cakes or cupcakes (which I've yet to try) and cookies. Thumbs up for the fact that they almost always have a few things on sample. There are also a few savory items for lunch: usually a frittata, a salad and soup of the day, something unique like crab cakes, and a few other offerings.
Bella dolce is one of the few places in town where I'll actually buy a scone. It seems that your average scone in Seattle would make a more suitable projectile weapon (nearly the size of a brick, overly dense and dry). These are welcome departure: no bigger than your palm, light, moist, slightly sweet and a flaky/crisp top. My sister is a big fan of their apple cinnamon rolls: full of yeasty and appley goodness without being overly sweet.
So next time you're down in Madison Valley, pass up the din and crowd of Essential Baking Company and try the local, little sister bakery nearly next-door: Bella Dolce.
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