Have you been to a French-Asian bakery yet?
I remember when Asian bakeries were hard to find, even in a metropolis like Manhattan. Now, there are so many Asian bakeries in Columbus that they have even spread to the suburbs!
The Columbus Foodletter recently reported on the influx of Asian dessert and drink chains throughout central Ohio.
They’re suddenly popping up everywhere: boba shops and French-Asian bakeries.
I can understand why the Columbus Foodletter team is concerned that these new national chains may take business from the small number of well-established, authentic local businesses already selling Asian baked goods and drinks.
Still, as a fan of delicious international treats, I can’t find fault with the trend. Maybe folks in the suburbs will experience these never-too-sweet delicacies for the first time thanks to the new shops. Then, having discovered a new love for Asian baked goods and boba, perhaps they’ll take the time to seek out the very best places to find them – which naturally are the original, smaller, locally-owned shops.
Of course, I’d rather have the exquisite, impeccable gourmet treats from Mjomii or Belle’s Bread than those available from national chains… but I will also love having Paris Baguette (opening soon in the Polaris area) closer to home. I’m already a fan of Tous Les Jours down on campus and I’m crazy about Kung Fu Tea opening a shop in Lewis Center. Maybe there’s room for everyone in the world of Asian sweets and treats?
French-Asian bakeries have actually been popular in South Korea since the late 1980s when national chains Paris Baguette and Tous Les Jours both started their businesses. They have since spread worldwide.
Asian bakeries typically whip up creations that are lighter, fluffier and less sweet than typical American baked goods, using less sugar and less butter. They often incorporate wonderful Eastern flavors like sesame, red bean and yuzu. Once you’ve tried them, you simply can’t go back to regular cakes, cookies and doughnuts!
If you’re new to this phenomenon, allow me to share some of my favorite Asian bakery treats. I’m sure you know about macarons, the meringue-based French confection that became popular after the cupcake craze. But did you know that Asian bakeries make the best macarons? It’s true!
My other favorite Asian baked treats include cloud milk buns (the softest bread imaginable with lovely custard inside), custard buns and red bean buns (filled with traditional red bean paste – think peanut butter consistency but with a unique, mostly sweet flavor). Part of the fun is trying things you’ve never had before – trust me, it’s all delicious!
There are Asian and French-Asian bakeries all over Columbus and its suburbs. Search “Asian bakery near me” in Google and you may be surprised at what pops up in your neighborhood. And, just like Pokemon, I want to catch – and try – them all!
