Avalon International Breads - Much More Than Just Bread

Whenever I am in the city in the morning I make a point to stop by Avalon International Breads, often called Avalon Bakery. This weekend Christie and I happened to be downtown early in the day and we made the stop in to get some treats. It occurred to me that while this is a Detroit staple to me, it may not be known to all of readers so we snapped a couple of shots while we were there so we could tell you about the place.

Avalon Bakery was established in 1997 by Ann and Jackie, two women who wanted to share the art of baking bread and pastries with the public. Their plan was to offer artisan baked goods made with 100% organic flour in the heart of Detroit, the Cass Corridor to be specific. On their website they talk of having their own families and friends give them the initial investment to get the business off the ground, offering them bread bucks to cash in once the doors were finally open.

Today they feature all sorts of items including bread, brioche, sticky buns, scones, cookies, whoopie pies, focaccia, sandwiches (including egg ones for breakfast), coffee, salads, and all sorts of local goods including jams and jellies. But, the reason I go there is the cookies. They have they most delicious cookies I have ever tasted, the sea salt and chocolate chip melts in your mouth and is one of a kind. Having a cup of coffee with a cookie is one of the best treats that I can think of. The egg and cheese sandwiches are also a delight and feature a variety of different cheeses each time I pick one up. I like to get mine heated but you can choose to also eat it cold, which some people enjoy more.

Avalon is located at 422 W. Willis in Detroit. It is open Monday through Saturday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. I highly recommend this the next time you're in the city as both a treat and a great place to buy gourmet organic bread.

~S