Ayca User of Antoinette Boulangerie with a platter of croissants. (Photo by Susan Ericson. Click to enlarge)
By SUSAN ERICSON
What could be better than café au lait and a fresh-baked croissant? How about a coconut chocolate croissant specially made for the season?
This is just one of the delectable sweets to come out of the kitchen at Antoinette Boulangerie on Monmouth Street in Red Bank. Opened just eight months ago in the middle of a snowstorm, the French pastry shop has garnered serious attention and appreciation from the local public. It is often busy, particularly on the weekends.
The croissants, sprinkled with coconut, contain a surprise chocolate center. (Photo by Susan Ericson. Click to enlarge)
In addition to selling fresh-baked breads, flaky croissants and pretty pastries, all made in-house, Boulangerie handles orders for special-event cakes.
“We are also adding some imported jams, jellies and other things,” said co-owner and manager Ayca User, pointing to new shelves.
User also mentioned that there is a plan in the works for the hallway on the side of the shop to become an art gallery. An opening with a reception is on a date to be determined, but it will be sometime after Labor Day, User said.
Sweet treats and the cultural experience of an art gallery too? This boulangerie just keeps getting better and better.