Where to Get the Best Croissants in Rhode Island
There are several local bakeries that have created the perfect croissant.
Little Sister
Little Sister stocks the usual classic and chocolate versions, but owner Milena Pagán also puts her own Latin spin on two varieties by stuffing one with chorizo and manchego cheese, and sprinkling one with sesame seeds and toasted almond slices. Inside the almond version is a yummy filling made from their horchata, which is a rich, creamy drink derived from almonds, cinnamon and other spices. Little Sister also creates cruffins — croissant and muffin hybrids — usually stuffed with tropical fruits like mango and guava. 737a Hope St., Providence, littlesisterpvd.com
Butterbang
Self-taught baker Brian Leosz fell in love with croissants in France and dedicated himself to perfecting the craft. His croissants take about three days to make, and the attention
to detail pays off in the texture and flavor. As the bakery moves into a new location, follow Butterbang on social media for the inside scoop on when to order and pick up varieties that range from classic, choco, almond, choco almond, the Dainty Pig (prosciutto, gouda and rosemary) and yum rolls (a croissant cinnamon roll with vanilla glaze and salted caramel). instagram.com/butterbangcroissants
Ellie’s
Ellie’s is like a trip to Paris in Providence. The display case shows off elaborate cakes and French macarons in every color of the rainbow and the croissants are as warm and flaky as any you’d find on the Champs-Élysées. The bakery and cafe serves the usual classic, almond and chocolate versions, but there’s also a ham and melty cheese one that’s a meal in itself. Insider’s tip: Go right at 8 a.m. when they are still warm out of the oven. 225 Weybosset St., Providence, 563-3333, elliesprov.com
Madrid European Bakery
The croissants at this European-style bakery in Wayland Square are a must no matter what else distracts you. Whether it’s classic, chocolate or fruit-filled, add a few to your order. Best consumed immediately with backups for breakfast the next day. 199 Wayland Ave., Providence, 409-2300, madrideuropeanbakery.com
South County
Bread Company
South County Bread Company creates croissants for both butter-lovers and plant-based pastry fans. They stock traditional butter, almond, chocolate and ham and Swiss croissants made with sourdough starter as well as vegan traditional and chocolate versions made with plant butter and oat milk. They also go all out with specials like a Reuben croissant made using rye croissant dough filled with Russian dressing, pastrami, sauerkraut and Swiss cheese. 333 Main St., Wakefield, 792-4303, socobreadco.com
The French Confection
The croissants at the French Confection are made by fifth-generation French baker and pastry chef Xavier Mauprivez who is from the city of Reims, France. Opt in for butter, chocolate and almond versions or use one as a savory vessel for bacon, egg and cheese, ham and swiss, spinach and feta or a half a dozen other sandwiches. 72 E. Main Rd., Middletown, 619-7816, thefrenchconfection.com
