My favorite place to grab lunch or coffee with friends! Owners are so nice and really go out of their way to make you happy. Food is delicious. All of it! Only downside is I wish they could take cards but I understand it is a small business.. Highly recommended!! read more

Very authentic?! There was even a faint resentment towards people without exact change and those who did not speak French.

It is good bread. I will be back again; will have to remember to carry cash. My only disappointment is they don't take debit/credit cards; this is 2013. Get Square or something. read more

My friend and I planned to have breakfast there on Friday at 8am. It is supposed to open at 7:30. She got there early at 7:45am and it wasn't even open yet. She called me to tell me and I said I wasn't far, that we should just meet here and then figure out where to go. By the time I got there at 7:55 they had just opened but were entirely unprepared for customers. There was a table that hadn't been bussed from the night before with dirty food plates still on the table and my friend went to the bathroom and said it looked as if they hadn't mopped the floor in a month. We looked over the menu and looked at the left over food from the day before in the show cases and saw that the quiche, which I had planned to order, was still in the display case from the night before. Maybe the display case was refrigerated? I couldn't tell, but they weren't ready to take my order in the 10 mins we stood there so I didn't have a chance to ask anyways. We just decided to leave. The food might be good, I'll never know because the unprofessionalism just turned me off. I have closed and opened businesses before (admittedly not in food service) but being late and having it still be dirty seem unacceptable, even more so when food is involved in my mind. read more

A little bit--no, a lot--of France right here in Madison. This bakery and coffeeshop draws a crowd of croissant munchers and espresso sippers for a reason. The bakery is quality, and best of all, very fresh. Come early or your choices will be limited. The chocolate croissant tastes just the way one should, and their quiches are FAB. The staff behind the counter speaks French amongst themselves between taking orders, so I'd say authenticity is a check! There are about 8 tables in the cafe, so if you want to stay for a while, be prepared to wait during early and lunch hours. But once you've got a spot, it'd be easy to sip and chat for hours as the French do is this perfect patisserie. read more

I love that I can get a little bit of France just down the road. I am a Francophile who is regularly homesick for France, and the first time I went to La Baguette, I wept from just the smell of the bread, as it brought back so many happy memories. To address some of the negative reviews: 1. The French tend to be more reserved than Americans. What we see as friendly service is interpreted as invasive pushiness to a French person. So while their reservedness may seem "rude" to you, it is actually considered polite and professional treatment; the French view of how a server should treat a customer. 2. The "correcting" of your pronunciation could be one of two things, either a 'French reflex' (the French generally have a cultural value on spoken language and regularly correct one another as a matter of course), or simply a non-native English speaker clarifying your order so as not to misunderstand you and get your order wrong. I know for a fact one of their employees has very limited English and probably has difficulty understanding French pastries spoken with an American accent, even though your attempt was a good-faith one. Either way, it's not intended to be an insult and you shouldn't take it as one. 3. Quiche can be served warm or room temperature. Rarely in France have I eaten a quiche hot. 4. Butter is a standard spread for sandwiches in France. Mayonnaise is more of a dipping sauce than a sandwich spread there. To be fair, most of the people who gave less-than-stellar reviews did allow for cultural differences in their comments, so this isn't meant as a direct response to the viewers per se; but more to provide some context for their reviews so that others can have better understanding of all the reviews for La Baguette as a whole. And of course, reviews from those who simply did not care for the food, well, à chacun ses goûts (to each his own). La Baguette is the most authentic French experience one can have in Madison. While the food doesn't necessarily rearrange my molecular structure, it is exactly what I would expect from any established bakery in France. It is the Genuine Article, and the baker knows his craft well. It is very obviously a family business and things are done in the old world way without the place becoming a self-conscious museum piece. The pastries are excellent, and there is nowhere else in Madison to get French bread this authentic. read more

So far, I've had croissants of various sorts and baguettes from La Baguette. They have been outstanding! The baguettes are crusty but soft and wonderful inside. My 11-year-old rates the pain au chocolat (chocolate croissants) her all-time favorite. Good coffee, too. A pleasant place to sit down for a little meal or snack. read more

I called to find out if they make macaron, which is a typical french desert. A man answered and just snapped, 'Hello', I wasn't sure I had called the right place, but not a good start... So I ask if they make macaron, the guy, who sounded French, says only if you special order. There was a little misunderstanding between us, because of his accent. I think we both got frustrated and he started acting rude. I thought he meant 10$ worth , but it was really TEN macaron. At La Baguette, one macaron is 3.50$, so that would require an order of 10 at 35$. He was rude and abrupt, then hung up on me, before even taking my order. I've never had them so I was curious, but now not so much. *update* On the following Monday- So, I still wanted to try the macarons, but I also wanted to find out if this is how they treat their customers. I called, little did I know I was talking to the owner. I told her about the previous call and how even though I was treated rude, I was still really interested in making an order. She didn't seem to find it interesting that I was treated rudely the first time(considering she's the owner), and to top it of, she herself DID NOT know how many macarons I needed to make the special order. She said maybe 10 or 12. So I got frustrated and asked if she knew which one it was. She said 'Ok, maybe 12.' Maybe isn't definite. So I said, 'Okay, you don't know, can I speak to someone who does?' (Mind you SHE'S the OWNER, shouldn't she know??) In reply, she snaps at me, 'We don't make macaron okay? So that's it.' I couldn't believe that... first they do, now they don't. 'So now you don't make them?' I admit it pissed me off - w.t.heck? I'm a CUSTOMER; ie, potential return ie money giver???, and you're being rude to me instead of facilitating a transaction? So I told her to bleep herself and hung up. I was so upset, now I was going to go let the owner know, (cuz I still didn't know SHE was). So I get my coat on and go there ask to speak to the owner and wait. While I'm looking around, I notice they don't really have a large stock of bakery. Very few pies or bread... interesting. When a woman comes out and I heard her voice - I knew she was the person from the phone. D'oh! I told her I was the caller from earlier, that I was hoping to resolve the situation and was wrong for saying what I said. But I added that I wrote a review about how I was treated and that this would be her chance to win a customer over. She was unapologetic (which I wouldn't expect her to be at this pt.) but even accused me of being rude from the beginning. O.o Um I don't think so. Do the French think if they accuse someone else of being rude first then it means THEY weren't? Once I realized she didn't care about customers, it ended with me saying some not very nice things in the french I learned from school. Let's just say, I will NEVER, EVER go back, and don't recommend them. Proof positive to me that French ARE rude. read more

Nice place. Pleasant ambiance, good selection of fresh bakery; a bit expensive.

I'm a regular customer. I stop in for baguettes almost weekly. A neighbor who lived in France told me about this place. I thought what could be so different about a baguette? But then I tried one and yes, these have taste, unlike American baguettes. I use them for sandwiches, soups, and charcuterie trays. If you manage to taste one hot from the oven, that baguette might not make it home! read more

Croissants the way they should be.... Flaky buttery layers of goodness! Great sandwhiches, fabulous coffee, gorgeous pastries to impress guests at your next Sunday brunch. read more

My new favorite. My americano was made perfectly, I actually had to have another! Cannot wait to try more food items. Croissant was buttery and flaky. Quiche flavorful. I will be bringing my husband with me next time. read more

La Baguette - Perfect americano - Bakeries Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Every time I come here the food is wonderful, the staff is better and the prices are great. Forever a customer!!!

After seeing so many excellent reviews, I was hopeful on this one. I was sadly disappointed. I picked up espresso and a couple of pastry tarts (chocolate and fruit) and none of these items were particularly memorable. Espresso was burnt, both tart crusts were too thick, the pastry cream was too sweet and runny, and the fruit on the fruit tart was not of great quality. The food is not inedible, but if you are looking for a great French bakery in Madison--this isn't it, especially for the prices. They are set much too high given the quality of the food. I would pay 4.50 for an excellent pastry but not for this mediocre experience. read more

As suggested, I went with the asparagus quiche and it was fabulous. I could not ask for a better start. I did try a dessert pastry and felt that it was lacking moisture. I had never had fondant before but wanted to try their heart fondant covered layered cake. The mousse inside was great but I felt it was sandwiched between two layers of ...passable cake. I think I came in at the wrong time for that dessert. I will go back and try the fresh strawberry and cream cake. While inside waiting, I noticed many folks coming in just for loaves of bread. That, too, will be on my list to pirchase. read more

This place used to be so much better! I'm super disappointed - again. I'm here right now, and really wish I had picked a different place. The latte and cappuccino that we ordered were the worst expresso drinks I've ever tasted. Ever. They tasted like they came from a vending machine. My pastry (cherry almond torte) was ok but it was served ice cold. My mom got the raisin brioche which was stale. When we asked for a refund for the coffees,we were told that no one working here today is allowed to do that. Actually a group of employees all gathered around to say they couldn't do anything. Well, one woman did give us the business card and said we should contact the owner. Thanks for nothing. read more

This is the best bakery and coffeeshop you'll find in Madison, and tastes like a little slice of Paris in the Midwest. The croissants are excellent, and the coffee is unquestionably worth the price. If you want a tart--go for the lemon, even if it wouldn't normally be your first pick; it's a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a delicious pate brisee crust. The other tarts are beautiful, but not as flavorful. You'll spend more than you would at any other Madison-area coffeeshop, but it's such a worthwhile treat. Highly recommended. read more

I love this place! I stopped in yesterday for a latte and a chocolate croissant. Super delish. The people who work there speak French, and they are always happy. They take your order right away, and serve you fresh, tasty "real" food. The La Nicoise salad is REALLY good. This place is quaint, small and clean. I've been there several times, and I always enjoy the authentic French experience. Yay! read more

One thing that really is not excusable in my book is when food is served to you partially warm. I understand that the food has been sitting in the deli cooler, but deng. Take that extra minute and heat my food up correctly. I ate a ham and swiss quiche. It wasn't warm. It did taste good, though I've had much better in France. I tasted a friend's ham sandwich and the bread's denser than I would like. He enjoyed it though. read more

Cute inside Almost like a French Cafe. Prices could be better. A whole Quiche can be made for the same price they charge for a piece. If you are going to drop $10.00 on coffee and bread, try La Brioche. You'll fall in love. And they take cards. This place doesn't. read more

Two things I love: Tarte au citron and tarte au chocolat. These two things are done fabulously here. I've bought 10? 20? of them in the past year, year and a half and have never been disappointed. The batards are also very very good. Come to think of it, I've not been disappointed here. I think it's cash only though. read more

First, I cannot speak to the authenticity of this food - I've never been to France and have no idea what qualifies as authentic French food. But I like the pastries at Baguette, a lot. I've tried probably half a dozen pastries there, ranging from a traditional croissant to pain au chocolat and others, and they were all excellent - flaky, moist, delicious, just great. I only subtract one star because their hours are more limited than I would like. Also, the owners sometimes go on vacation, leaving the store closed for several days. So probably half the times I've gone there they've been either closed earlier than one would expect, or closed for the week because of vacation. Also, although I have not been to France, the service at La Baguette is what I would imagine 'French' service to be. They are not necessarily unpleasant - but rather curt and somewhat impersonal. The atmosphere of the shop and staff is a bit 'bourgeois.' They get you your stuff (after correcting your good faith attempt at French pronunciation ;), give the obligatory polite smile, and they're done with you. As I said, it's probably just a cultural difference, but it seems abrupt and borderline rude to this naive American. Of course, YMMV. read more

I love this place. I often get quiche and espresso. Both deserve 5 stars. Don't forget to take home a loaf of bread

I absolutely love La Baguette. From their excellent authentic French desserts to their breads, everything I have tried was superb. If you are looking for an "American French" restaurant, you can go somewhere else. Having traveled to France, this bakery made me feel like I was back in Europe. The family that runs the business has always been friendly to me each time I visited. If you are courteous to them, they will be courteous to you! Their goat cheese quiche and macarons are my favorite items. Bring cash, or a local check to pay. read more

I like to stop in for a chocolate croissant when I'm in Madison.

I was shocked at the authenticity of the place. Unassuming and really a hidden gem in Madison. I had a great time catching up with my brother while I munched on a tasty sandwich and sipped a warm cup of coffee. I will definitely be back if I'm in the area again. read more

My favorite lunch place (I happen to work in West Madison). The breads are the big draw here--an incredible range of beautiful, crusty choices, made daily. I don't eat a lot of carbs, but these are worth the occasional indulgence. _All_ of their sandwiches are excellent (served on various breads), as are the salads. Soups are just okay. They are open for breakfast through 6:00 PM, so get in early if you want take home dinner. All food items are fresh and light. I've never been to France, but if this is what real French food is like, I'm there. Oh yeah, the pastries are to die for. Panera is not bad, but if you want the real deal, go to La Baguette (soon). read more

Very good authentic French cuisine. I lived in France for a while, so it's nice to find a place in Madison that does such a good job of capturing the atmosphere of typical restaurants in France. That being said, I'm not personally a big fan of French cuisine, so I have a little trouble objectively rating their food. They offer soups, sandwiches, quiches, and various pastries. From what I can discern, the quality is great and everything is fresh. The bakery items are wonderful, especially the fruit tarts and baguettes. Be warned: they only take cash...no credit cards allowed. I've gone when it's extremely crowded and there isn't a single seat available, but I've also gone when I'm the only person in the restaurant. Many of the staff are French, which provides a nice opportunity to practice speaking French, a rarity in Madison. I do recommend it, particularly for lunch. read more

Madison's best bakery. The tarts are great. You definitely shouldn't miss the tarte au citron (lemon tart). They also bake great bread. I haven't tried any of the sandwiches or quiches, but I have to seriously fight the urge to buy a tart every time I drive by. read more

Amazing find my first week living in Madison! I return at least once a week for the delicious goat cheese quiche and a hot chai latte! I will be bringing everyone who visits to check out this French gem! read more

Friendly service and fantastic pastries! I particularly love their pear tart: buttery, cinnamon-y deliciousness. Their baguettes are also excellent. Et on peut parler français ici! Owned by a French couple, so it's pretty legit. read more

There are many fast food options around West Towne Mall but one that's often overlooked is La Baguette. Why would you want a Quarterpounder with cheese when you can have a lovely French meal in the same amount of time? For the same price. My favorite lunch is their quiche. OMG the crust is amazing. I work near West Towne Mall and when I only have 15 minutes, I go to La Baguette. It's scrumptious! Their soups and salads are wonderful and healthy. Their pastries are amazing. It's a place owned by a French-speaking couple who are very friendly. Why go to a chain restaurant when you can go to La Baguette? read more

The chevre quiche is very good. My fiancée and I split two of their sandwiches when we go because they're all so good. We had the Parisian and fermier today, both excellent. If only they took credit cards, I would give them 5 stars. Coffee is also great. read more

Excellent! Fresh and wonderful!. The bread is outstanding and the staff very nice and attentive

The "boule" is unmatched anywhere in town. It induced a brief and poignant moment of Proustian reverie. The baguette is also a good facsimile to what I remember in its homeland. The croissant flies into a million flakes on first bite (this is a good thing!). The strip mall is a draw back for any dine in. read more

Whenever I am craving chocolate, which happens a lot, I stop in here and get a Chocolate Tart. YUM!! I've tried a few of the breads, the names of which escape me now but they were all great! I haven't tried many of the other pastries- every time I go in I think 'try something new' but then I see the Chocolate Tart and I just can't resist, its just too perfectly chocolaty! read more

Me and my girlfriend just moved to Madison and happen to stumble upon this place. Great luck that we found it. Everything in this place is so authentic French and delicious. The owners are from France and are extremely friendly and made us feel so welcome in our new city. They went over all of the food options and we had a tartine, quiche, and a few amazing desserts. We have been to France before and this was spot on authentic tasting. La Baguette is definitely going to be our new goto place and cannot wait to try some more of the other awesome looking items that they have. Carine and Olivier who are the owners have definitely created a nice slice of France right here in Madison. Coming back soon!! read more

Love it! A fine place for a light lunch with a distinctly French touch.

Amazing French bakery goods. I never leave without a slice of quiche (feeds two easily) and a chocolate croissant. Absolutely delicious.

I love visiting this bakery. I always order a chocolate croissant to eat there or at home and a baguette to go. The food is always fresh and everything tastes great. The bakery itself is quite charming when you enter and the service is great. Just make sure to bring cash. Not sure if it's changed since I last went, but they don't didn't take card. read more