Ooh La La Photo: Brenda C. Hill

A year and half ago I reviewed Ooh La La, a small French bakery, in Sarasota, Florida, on the day it opened. I knew it would be a success. Now they have expanded their deliciously decadent dishes as well as their days and hours. This authentic bistro-style bakery reminds me of walking down a side street in Paris.

When I long for that “French moment” I head back to Ooh La La, now open on Sundays, This cafe is my favorite to linger over the newspaper with a mug of cafe au lait and a buttery almond croissant or crepe La Bretonne, with raspberries, cream, and kirsch.
French owner-baker, Teresa, makes a special quiche of the day every day. This cafe is my favorite Sunday morning treat. If you ask her in advance she will make any quiche you like served with a salad or buy the whole quiche for a party, or yourself. My latest love affair is  spinach, goat cheese and walnut quiche. This is the only spot I have found so far in the United States to find an authentic Lintzer Tart. When I don’t have time to linger in the delightful  ambiance, I pop in for a fresh warm baguette to go.
Like Paris, Ooh La La  French Bakery is a feeling.
Ooh La La French Bakery

Chef Teresa’s Fruit Tart at Ooh La La Photo: Brenda C. Hill

2705 Mall Drive
Gulf Gate Village
Open Tuesday-Sunday at 9 A.M.
Maralyn
Author: Maralyn

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.