Bring me Sunshine, Village Patisserie

The Village Patisserie
2217 Oak Bay Ave.
Oak Bay, B.C.
250-370-0766

E: Little did I know that the Village Patisserie would also offer a variety of Persian delights. From soups to desserts, there was a lot that I couldve ordered.

But I was looking for a light snack, and my eyes quirked when I spotted a sweet priced at $2.60 for two. The zoolbia was delicious. It had a fine crystal-like structure. I could swear I was eating a honeycomb with none of the waxiness that some may think this dessert would have. After learning rose-water was used, I can see why.

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There and Back Again with Dutch Bakery

The Dutch Bakery
718 Fort St.
Antiques Row
Victoria, B.C.
(250) 385-1012
 
E: The Dutch Bakery is a good standby when James is late and needs a bite to eat. I was busy but by the time I finally met him an hour later, did I chew him out? Nope. A Flying Dutchman got in the way.

J: I was late with a good reason. Ed and I have a 2nd meeting place at Murchie’s where I knew he could be found in the company of freelance journalist Tim Colinson (he has many articles published in Monday Magazine).

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Wooden Shoes Not Included

The Dutch Bakery & Coffee Shop
718 Fort Street
Victoria, BC
(250) 385-1012


J: I’ve heard of the Dutch Bakery. And on the days I’ve strolled down Antiques Row, I would often see the delicious pastries tempting me from the display window.

But never have I stepped into the establishment. Me, a man born and raised in this fine city was completely unfamiliar with this place. I learned that in 1955, Cornelis J. Schadelee bought a failing coffee shop and turned it into one of the most successful independent businesses in the city. As I entered this bit of Victoria’s heritage, it was bustling.

People were queued-up to buy pastries for Christmas. Others sat in the diner that has changed little in appearance.

The diner was decorated in Dutch-themed wall hangings. Large black and white photos depicting the business history adorned one wall.

One would think Dutch Bakery takes great pride in their past.

E: I can only imagine what being here must be like when those meat pies are fresh out of the oven. Most of the time, when I want to treat myself, I pop in to grab one and delight in the buttery tenderness of the pastry they use to make these heavenly pies.

At $2.30 each, I can easily stop in anytime. Today, after bumping into my ol’ schoolmate, Shane Priestly, while heading there, all three of us sat down for a spell and enjoyed some good times reminiscing amidst the holiday rush. Both Priestly and I are recent graduates from Camosun College’s Applied Communication Program.

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