649680 Thu Sep 03 01:01:22 -0700 2009 4 8 Midwest 0 5001214 I love french bread. It's one of the few foods I crave but my experience has been limited to the CUB and Sam's variety. I was wondering if there are any baker's out there with a recipe that'll blow my mind? Thu Sep 03 01:01:22 -0700 2009 218613 MilliePop 1 5001842 You might enjoy Rustica's offerings. 46th and Bryant Ave (although they are moving later in the Fall). Thu Sep 03 08:13:02 -0700 2009 5001214 11110 MSPD 1 5003898 If you're open to small loaves (and they may actually have long ones, but I'm not sure), you should try Trung Nam - they do it Vietnamese style (I think this may involve using a bit of rice flour) so they get an extra crisp exterior. Do pick up a croissant while you're there, too. May I recommend coconut? Thu Sep 03 20:35:19 -0700 2009 5001214 13324 diesel 1 5004006 It's an old standby, but I love the baguettes and ciabatta from New French Bakery. http://www.newfrenchbakery.com/ When I lived nearby, I bought the day old to make strata for breakfast. Many grocers now feature their take and bake breads. A baguette lasts about thirty seconds around my house with fresh tomatoes, olive oil and basil. Good stuff. Thu Sep 03 21:42:08 -0700 2009 5001214 52023 justalex 1 5010094 IMHO, Rustica makes the best Baguette. I purchase from them either at Coastal Seafood (Mpls) or Seward Coop. Half the time I am biting the end off the baguette during the drive home. It is probably difficult to reproduce this at home. I believe most bakers will use steam ovens for these types of breads. Sun Sep 06 20:02:00 -0700 2009 5001214 236325 dalewest