I'm just getting acquainted with Dolce Delights, the three-month-old patisserie next door to Sushi Raku in Midtown, but I'm already smitten after one croissant and a cup of coffee.
It's charming that way, with a light-filled dining room that encourages lingering in cozy, wool-covered chairs or a green velour sofa littered with magazines. The tree-lined front patio tempts you to forget you're in Houston were it not for the striking view of downtown across Elgin. And the fanciful pastries in its sleek case call to mind a more elegant version of the Wonka-esque Jean Philippe Patisseries that litter hotel lobbies in Las Vegas.
All said, it's a terrific contribution to the area in many capacities: as a spot to get caffeinated before a shopping spree at the four-story High Fashion Home across the street, a dessert destination after dining at Piola or Artisans, a post-gym break for a smoothie, or simply as a lunchtime sandwich shop. (Yes, it serves sandwiches, too.)
And although I haven't tried any of owner and head pastry chef Candace Chang's tempting desserts quite yet -- the Earl Gray mousse cake with coffee jelly and the banana-caramel macarons look particularly fetching -- I'm looking forward to working my way through the entire case over many future visits.
See more of Dolce Delights' delights below...
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