An Ode to a Bakery (The Closing of Denoel French Pastry Shop in St. Augustine, FL)

This past week, America lost one of the finest in the baking world. Denoel and I go way back, I can still remember the first time I stumbled upon this somewhat hidden gem in the historic downtown St. Augustine area. I still remember the fist time my eyes fell upon the beautifully hand crafted French inspired pastries, many of which contain my favorite ingredient marzipan which is a rare treat to find in the U.S. After I tried the marzipan fruit tart which consisted of light white sponge cake layered with creme chantilly, topped with fresh fruit, and wrapped with a thin layer of almond paste I was absolutely hooked. We returned countless times for pleasure and for every one of my birthdays since I turned 18. We became close with the assistant, Guy who always made sure to reserve a coveted fruit tart for us upon arrival. When Lewis and I became engaged we couldn't think of a better place to take our pictures than this magical pastry shop that has continued to bring us (and our palettes) so much joy. It sounds a little dramatic, but it feels like the passing of an old friend and to this I say; fly your flags at half mast, bring forth the lonesome trumpeter to lament its passing, weep at the mediocrity of the inferior baked goods that will soil our pallets evermore, you will be missed.

Denoel 1966-2014

*engagement pictures where taken by Soleil Boucher Photography