Bestie Business Card
La Boulangerie Marguerite (or Marguerite, for short) is the culmination of an invitation to bring a new identity and presence to this 100-year old established neighborhood bakery.
Business Hours
Local Map
DirectionsAbout St Paul, Minnesota, USA
MoreThe city boasts numerous attractions that showcase its historical charm and modern vibrancy. Landmarks like the Minnesota State Capitol and Historic Summit Avenue offer a glimpse into St. Paul's past with their Victorian architecture. Cultural highlights include the Science Museum of Minnesota and entertainment venues like Xcel Energy Center. The city’s parks, such as Como Park Zoo and Harriet Island Regional Park, along with annual events like the Parade of Lights, reflect its rich community spirit. Economically, St. Paul thrives on a mix of government, healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors, supported by major employers including the State of Minnesota and 3M. The downtown area is seeing revitalization, complemented by resources from local chambers of commerce and coworking spaces for entrepreneurs. Well-developed transportation infrastructure connects the city internally and with broader regions via major highways and nearby Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport.
Community resources are extensive, with strong educational and healthcare systems, alongside numerous recreational facilities promoting an active lifestyle. Safety is generally on par with national averages, supported by community policing efforts. St. Paul experiences four distinct seasons, ranging from warm summers to snowy winters, contributing to its unique natural appeal along the Mississippi River. The city’s cultural richness is evident in historic neighborhoods like Cathedral Hill and traditions such as the Winter Carnival, celebrating local heritage with Irish and German influences. Locally, amenities span upscale shopping on Grand Avenue to vibrant dining scenes in Cathedral Hill, while recreational activities like biking and kayaking are readily available. St. Paul’s commitment to arts and culture further enriches its dynamic community life through theaters, galleries, and music venues.
Nominated for BestAround
La Boulangerie Marguerite, a venerable Minnesota bakery, has garnered attention for its bid to be recognized as "BestAround," a prestigious accolade that celebrates exceptional dining experiences. The bakery's expansion into Northeast Minneapolis, while indicative of its growth ambitions, showcases a commitment to community integration and cultural preservation through its new location in the Arts District. This move aligns with its longstanding tradition of blending heritage with modernity, offering a menu that honors both classic French-inspired artisan goods and contemporary tastes.
Despite its loyal following and the quality of its offerings-from artisanal breads and croissants to savory creations-the bakery's reputation is not without its blemishes. Customer reviews reveal a mixed bag; while many appreciate the warm atmosphere, fresh products, and dedication to tradition, others have experienced stale goods, inconsistent service, and pricing issues. The Kiemde sisters' personal connection to the business adds depth to its identity, yet this sentiment is mirrored in customer feedback, where some feel a disconnect between the bakery's promise and reality.
The new NE location has similarly elicited varied responses, with some patrons finding it satisfactory and others echoing complaints about service and product quality. The bakery's ability to maintain its core values while expanding could be a key factor in its success under this new chapter. Ultimately, La Boulangerie Marguerite's journey reflects the delicate balance between honoring legacy and adapting to contemporary expectations-a challenge that could define its standing as a contender for "BestAround." For it to thrive, the bakery must address the areas of concern highlighted by its customers, ensuring that the essence of its beloved tradition remains intact while welcoming new faces to its community.
About La Boulangerie Marguerite
La Boulangerie Marguerite, a beloved 100-year-old neighborhood bakery in St. Paul, Minnesota, has expanded its footprint with a new location in Northeast Minneapolis, reflecting its commitment to community growth and cultural integration. This strategic move not only broadens the bakery’s reach but also introduces its signature offerings, including fan favorites and innovative French-inspired artisan goods, to a broader audience in the Arts District. The establishment of this second location underscores Marguerite's vision of blending tradition with modernity, ensuring that the essence of her family-owned business remains deeply rooted in the heart of the community.
Beyond its physical expansion, La Boulangerie Marguerite continues to offer a diverse menu that caters to both traditional and adventurous palates, from classic breads and croissants to savory menuitems and artisanal pastries. The bakery’s commitment to quality and cultural heritage is evident in every item, from its breads and sandwiches to its espresso and sweet treats. This dedication has earned it a loyal following, with customers appreciating the warm, welcoming atmosphere that complements the rich flavors of its products.
The Kiemde sisters, Melissa and Francois, have infused their cultural heritage into the bakery’s identity by naming their daughter Marguerite after Sister Mary Margaret McKenzie, a revered elder from North Minneapolis who played a pivotal role in honoring Francois’ cultural traditions. This personal touch not only honors a significant figure but also strengthens the bakery’s connection to its community and its roots. As La Boulangerie Marguerite continues to thrive, it stands as a testament to the power of tradition, community, and the enduring appeal of artisanal baking.
Category Tags
What Customers Say
419
Official Google Reviews
Customers have mixed experiences with La Boulangerie Marguerite, reflecting a range of opinions on the quality, service, and overall value of their offerings. Some praise the bakery for its high-quality pastries, especially the croissants and doughnuts, noting the freshness and variety. Customers appreciate the friendly staff and the pleasant atmosphere, particularly during quieter times. However, others have reported disappointment with stale or poorly made items, inconsistent service, and issues with pricing and customer support. A few customers highlight the bakery's unique offerings, such as the spinach feta croissant and almond croissants, which received positive feedback. Despite these positives, several reviews mention frustration over long wait times, incorrect orders, and a lack of attentiveness from staff. The new NE location has received mixed reviews, with some finding it satisfactory and others expressing concerns similar to those about the original location, particularly regarding customer service and the quality of the starter bread. Overall, while La Boulangerie Marguerite is valued by many for its delicious baked goods and cozy ambiance, there are significant areas for improvement that could enhance the customer experience and retain regular patrons.