WESTWOOD—It’s nice when promises are kept, sweeter still when they’re warm promises, flaky of crust and rich and wonderful.
If we were to dream, these would be promises inspired by New Orleans’ French Quarter, where Bourbon Street is aglow with art, jazz, and dance.
And, naturally, coffee, café au lait, and desserts, each presented with care.
Look no further than 301 Center Ave. in Westwood for New Orleans food and drink specialties in New Jersey, both sweet and savory.
Brought to you by the team behind the popular artisinal Glaze Donuts — sold in 2020 — this venture has the same commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. It, too, is a labor of love.
Jule Hazou and staff make their croissants in-house, from scratch, in small batches every day with the best of ingredients: King Arthur never bleached, never bromated, Non-GMO Project-verified flour, European-style butter, and cage-free eggs.
The shop puts that signature croissant dough to work on a rich variety of treats, and hasn’t skimped at all on its New Jersey bonafides — you’ll find Taylor ham, egg and cheese on housemade croissants waiting for you to start your day.
Hazou says Bourbon Street Beignet (ben-yay) —the iconic New Orleans treat made from choux pastry dough fried to a light and puffy golden perfection, topped with a generous dusting of powdered sugar, and best served warm — was created to bring The Sweet Taste of New Orleans ™ to you.
Ideally situated, downtown in the Hub of the Valley, this is a place to get away, relax, and enjoy authentic beignets, fresh-baked croissants, eclairs, and other sweet and savory morsels along with a wonderful cup of coffee, traditional New Orleans-style café au lait, hot chocolate, frappe, or tea. Come for breakfast, lunch — and perks throughout your day.
Hazou says, “We source Fair Trade Arabica coffee beans from small growers around the world, ensuring they are produced ethically and responsibly.”
Still glowing from its January ribbon cutting, the shop plans to offer regular live music, help celebrate the local arts, and more fully explore its partnership with Celebrate Westwood.
You’ll find ample seating — very convivial — airy amid warm brick and lilting romantic touches. This might be as close as many of us come to a vacation this year. You’ll agree it’s worth the trip.
Bourbon Street Beignet, 301 Center Ave., Westwood (next to Hanami Restaurant). For café hours, specials, events, and more, visit BourbonStreetBeignet.com.
