There's nothing quite like lunch "on the rocks." And I'm not referring to various forms of liquid libation. The elevated rear deck at Saint Peter's Bakery not only affords diners a glimpse of bucolic bliss, but also a bird's-eye view of the huge boulders that populate French Creek below. Part of the famous Saint Peter's Village "Rocks Trail," the area has become something of a destination spot for birding, hiking, horseback riding, or just plain exploring. In the heat of summer, you're likely to find a variety of human flora and fauna braving the icy water and/or just lounging on the rocks.
But the view from the bakery's rear deck isn't the only reason for paying a call here, as the cozy, historic dining room also has a great deal to offer in the way of comfort. Of primary interest, however - especially since Saint Peter's Bakery was named one of best bakeries in the United States - is the fact that the food here is definitely worthy of a look-see.
As you would expect, the artisanal breads are made fresh daily. And the usual goodies - pastries, cookies, pies, tortes, and cakes - utilizing (but of course) Old World recipes, are all present and accounted for.
But the kitchen also turns out some first-rate breakfast and luncheon fare as well. Breakfast dishes include Avocado Toast; Breakfast Sandwich, Breakfast Wrap & Potato Bowl, all featuring fluffy scrambled eggs with a variety of appetizing accompaniments; and full or half-size portions of Yogurt Parfait, composed of creamy Greek or coconut yogurt, house-made granola, fresh fruit, honey, and raspberry sauce.
The Quiche here, baked in a hand-pressed buttery crust, is particularly good and available at both breakfast and lunch. Accoutrements rotate between spinach, tomato, feta,, turkey bacon, caramelized onions, Swiss, broccoli, cheddar, smoked salmon, asparagus, and cream cheese roasted vegetable. The day of our early afternoon visit, the Tomato Quiche (pictured) took center stage and was thoroughly enjoyed by my dining partner.
Other luncheon possibilities include an interesting variety of sandwiches, wraps & salads. The St. Pete's, for instance, consists of open-faced French brie melted over apples and house-made strawberry jam, topped with honey, arugula, and sprinkle of sea salt on the bakery's rustic white sourdough. The Greek Salad also looks good... ditto the House Salad, a spiffy combo of apples, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, gorgonzola cheese, and artfully sprinkled balsamic glaze over fresh spring mix. The wraps - Roasted Vegetable, Chicken Waldorf, and California - all looked good. I choose the latter, a delicious (and prodigious) merger of sliced turkey, avocado, provolone cheese, and fresh spinach stuffed into a whole wheat wrap (pictured). Dessert...?
A shared brownie topped with peanut butter icing and several items to travel.
Originally making its debut in 2009, Saint Peter's Bakery recently reopened under new ownership. And owner/general manager Cassady Mayerson has promised her legions of loyal patrons that the bakery will continue to offer many of their classic treats, as well as a number of new items. In a brief message on the bakery's website, she requests patience as alterations are made to both the menus and hours of operation. For updates, readers may wish to consult the Saint Peter's Bakery Facebook and Instagram.
If you are anywhere in the area, the bakery is definitely worth a visit. And with the onslaught of warmer weather, lunch on the elevated rear deck will be a particularly pleasant experience. read more