I enjoy many different types of food, but one of my favorites is French cuisine. French cooking is incredibly complex and is built upon many years of history. It was my visits to France that made me realize how the French revere quality fare. Thanks to my daughter’s friend, I learned of the Little French Bakery in Redondo Beach.
After visiting France, I became addicted to croissants. Previously, I prepared commercially available frozen croissants and until I visited France, I didn’t realize how good they could be. I enjoy it when they are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and have a pronounced buttery taste.
The husband and wife team of Guillaume and Deborah Sabbadin owns the Little French Bakery and is their first brick and mortar. Previously, they operated a catering company and sold their baked goods at various LA area farmers markets.
I drive by their restaurant several times per week. Despite that, I was unaware of their existence, partially since the front of their bakery and sign is almost perpendicular to Palos Verdes Blvd. More noticeable is The Coffee Cartel sign next door to them. They have a tiny lot. Fortunately, plenty of metered street parking is available.
Because the bakery is small, they only allow one party at a time. Since it was my first time there, I purchased many items to try. Two items were a must that day, a regular croissant and a Parisian-style sandwich on a French baguette. Deborah asked me to wait outside while Guillaume prepared my sandwich and added that she would hand it through their window.
I was delighted with how fresh everything was. The best French bakers use a lot of butter, and you can taste it in the crust. I particularly enjoyed the raspberry danish topped with powdered sugar. The plain croissant is among the best LA offers, and I’m thrilled that they are close to my house.
In France, the sandwiches are straightforward. It’s all about the quality baguette, and you can’t add your toppings like a Subway sandwich. Their Parisien Sandwich has prosciutto, brie, arugula, and a pesto spread. The baguette is crisp outside and fluffy inside.
This small shop also offers freshly made sweet or savory crepes, cakes, fruit tarts, and sorbets. Be sure to check their smaller chalkboard for their daily specials.
Little French Bakery, 1820 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach, CA 90277; 310.504.0245; restaurantji.com/ca/redondo-beach/little-french-bakery-llc-/