Viennoiserie and Patisserie. Oxford, UK

June 2020

It was love at first bite and, ever since, Gatineau in Summertown has been a favourite of mine.  

The croissants are perfectly crisp on the outside and delightfully soft in the middle, the kind where you can pull the end and the light and airy middle will tumble out.  

Pain aux raisins balance generous spirals of creme patissiere and raisins without being overly sweet and sickly, and the colourful display of beautifully crafted patisserie always makes it a challenge to choose.

Le Cappuccino is a decadent summery alternative to an iced coffee - coffee soaked sponge and silky coffee custard wrapped in a crisp white chocolate cup with a little crunchy biscuit on top.

If matcha is your thing, go for the matcha sponge soaked in a tart passion fruit syrup, balanced by sweet and fruity raspberry jelly.  In case this isn't luscious enough, it's topped with a creamy yet airy Opalys 33% whipped ganache and gold flecks.

What would a Patisserie be without mille feuille?  At Gatineau, it's anything but standard - layer upon layer of crisp, caramelised pastry with a double layer of vanilla whipped ganache, pistachio cream and raspberry gelee.  It's nutty and fruity and sweet and creamy and naughtily delicious all at the same time.






As well as these delights, they make a wide array of bread, as well as chocolates, quiches, jams and biscuits.

Gatineau offerings can also be found at 2 North Parade, Brew, Missing Bean Roastery, Colombia Coffee Roasters and Will's Deli.