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Best Bakeries In Orange County For Fresh Bread

bread 610
(credit: shutterstock)

(credit: shutterstock)

Bread means different things to different people. While American bread is usually utilitarian, it's more like part of a religion in places like France and Germany - particularly when it's served with cheese. No matter who makes it, few things are quite as appealing as the aroma and taste of warm, fresh-baked bread. If you're looking for fresh-baked breads of any variety, try these excellent bakeries.

BREAD Artisan Bakery
(Credit: BREAD Artisan Bakery)

BREAD Artisan Bakery
1943 E. Pomona St.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(855) 28-BREAD
www.breadartisanbakery.com

French people take their bread very seriously. You certainly won't find anything like Wonder Bread when you travel to France. BREAD was started by Yannick Guegan, who learned his craft in France - his home country. Guegan bakes his unique breads daily, and they just look and taste better than other breads you'll find. Some of the specialties here are the brioche and the baguette - two breads that are staples in France. Do yourself a favor and head to the Santa Ana farmers market, where you'll find breads from this fine bakery.

bread gallery
(credit: Angela V./Yelp)

Bread Gallery
1624 N El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
(949) 366-5849
www.breadgallery.org

When it comes to fresh bread, it's hard to beat breads that are baked in a European style. Bread Gallery specializes in German-style breads that are good and crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. When you taste the breads here, you'll know that a lot of time and attention went into making them. The baguettes here are best enjoyed quickly - preferably shared with your family at one meal. You'll find Bread Gallery at farmers markets throughout the week in Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Tustin.

fresh bread
(credit: shutterstock)

Rendez Vous
3330 E. Coast Highway 
Newport Beach, CA 92625
(949) 791-8730
www.rendezvouscdm.com

The French take bread so seriously that they specialize in several different kinds of breads such as baguettes, brioches, and croissants. If you're looking for croissants, Rendez Vous is a good place to visit. Here you'll find standard and chocolate croissants as well as varieties with almonds, pears, or apples. You'll also find a raisin and a cinnamon brioche here that will keep you coming back. 

Related: Best bakeries in Orange County

Katella Deli
(credit: Katella Deli)

Katella Deli, Bakery, & Restaurant
4470 Katella Ave.
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
(562) 594-8611
www.katellabakery.com

No matter what sort of bread you're looking for, you'll find it here. Katella Deli specializes in artisan breads that are baked fresh daily. Some of the specialties here are the Jewish rye and onion rolls. However, you'll also find fresh baguettes and fresh bagels. If you're someone who believes there is nothing better than a fresh bagel, this is definitely a great place to visit. 

fresh bread
(credit: shutterstock)

Solomon's Bakery
23016 Del Lago Drive
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
(949) 586-4718
www.solomonsbakery.com

It would be easy to drive right by Solomon's because it is kind of hidden back from Lake Forest Drive. However, when you find the place, you'll also find why this place is so good. You'll find every kind of bread you could want here from rolls and buns to loaves of good, crusty bread. You'll be amazed at how quickly Solomon's breads will disappear when you get them home, but since you can't stock up on fresh bread, you just might have to make regular visits.

Gary Schwind is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
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