Over the weekend we decided to head back to Manuel Latruwe, Calgary’s very own Belgian Patisserie and Bread Shop. (We hadn’t been in awhile.) Located in Victoria Park, you can’t help but start salivating the moment you walk through the door – just remember they are only open Tuesday through Saturday, so if a craving hits on Sunday you’re up the creek.
The cakes and desserts are like works of art, but you would expect nothing less from a place where the owner and namesake has won multiple international awards for his skill. Manuel moved to Calgary over a decade ago, and what was Belgium’s loss was our gain.
When you come in, you order from the counter regardless if you are dining in or just picking something up. And expect to see and hear Manuel with his distinct Belgian accent, taking orders and chatting with regulars – which we may have to become after our rediscovery.
The 32-seat dining room is the perfect spot to enjoy a light breakfast or lunch, European-style, with friends. Nibble on buttery and flaky croissants (they are the real deal) as you sip your espresso. Not a caffeine junky? They also have made-to-order freshly squeezed orange juice.
The lunch menu offers a selection of quiches, salads, pizzas and sandwiches (croque or baguette) all of which have you dreaming of little terraces on cobblestone streets. And no lunch is complete without a glass of wine or beer. The team has brought in Belgian favourites for the brews and chosen some amazing wines from France.
For young professionals who like to entertain, but don’t have the time to adequately prepare, Manuel Latruwe is the perfect solution. Hosting a brunch? The selection of pastries will delight your guests. Dinner? A Manuel Latruwe cake is the perfect way to finish off a meal.
Whether you plan to sit and stay a while or simply want to pick up a baguette on the way home from work, Manuel Latruwe is worth visiting. Manuel Latruwe Belgian Patisserie and Bread Shop, Calgary, 403-261-1092.