Bienvenue, Richaud

Richaud Petite Bakery (West Village)

GOODS & SERVICES • FOUND Bakery

The Skinny: Standing on Perry St. around 9a one weekday morning a few weeks ago, I suddenly smelled that most heavenly of scents: good bread, leaving the oven. Like a Disney character tempted by the tendrils of something delicious, I looked up and sniffed, turning my head from east to west. Was it that pastry van delivering tonight’s dessert to St. Ambroeus? Couldn’t be.

A glance in the other direction showed a new small green awning. A bicycle delivery, exiting the small new door with a bag of loaves. Inside, I spied a wild cloud of flour and rising dough on the marble counter slab. Hello, Richaud Petite Bakery, just-arrived, and already very welcome.

The Vibe: Sole proprietor and baker Richaud whirls behind the counter back and forth to his new oven, greeting customer feedback exuberantly and with an impish smile. He was an actor in France and here, where he’s lived for 15 years and picked up baking in his apartment during the pandemic. Several friendly staff were working the various stations as the morning sun streamed through the front window.

The Food: Perfect baguettes (hot out of the oven most mornings around 840a), pain au raisin (perfect), minis of everything, and a great double espresso. There are also jams from Alain Milliat (are the nectars next?) and other deliciousness. (Richaud: demi-baguette, please!)

The Verdict: Exactly the right fit at exactly the right time. In two seats outside, surrounded by hand-tended herbs and greenery, you feel a French flag planted on this already magical block. Enjoy it and tell your friends, but maybe keep this to the FOUND community and neighbors for a while. Bienvenue, Richaud and team, we love you already. –NL Johnson

→ Richaud Petite Bakery (West Village) • 41 Perry St • Tue-Sun 6a-6p.