This is one of my favorite spots in Fargo, Perhaps it's because I was a French minor in college, but somehow this place is never "Nichole's Fine Pastry," but rather Nichole's patisserie. Located downtown on 8th St. just south of Main Ave., the exterior evokes the Provençal colors of golden yellow and lavender blue.
The interior is spare and clean, but inviting. Ever-changing local art decks the walls and glass cooler cases house fanciful confections and treats evoking grandma's kitchen. Small square tables with glass-topped tablecloths make the space feel European and homey.
The real draw to Nichole's, however, is not the atmosphere: it's the food. Or rather, the desserts.
Pastry chef Nichole Hensen creates everything from seasonal fruit tarts, galettes, and the quintessential Midwestern bars, to créme brulée, chocolate truffles, biscotti, and pound cake. The menu changes seasonally, so check out their website for the complete list.
They also offer fresh sandwiches, salads, and full coffee house selections. Things aren't cheap, but they're not expensive either.
However much I love this place, I do have a few complaints: for one, they're not open on Mondays and only until 6 pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Dessert is meant for eating after dinner! Though they are open until 10 pm Thursday through Saturday.
However, they don't open in the mornings until 10 am! So walking to the patisserie at 6 am for your pain au chocolat and café au lait is a no-go. On a related note, I wish they were more French. Perhaps Nichole could go in with a master baker and open a bakery with delicious baguettes and flaky croissants... Okay, now we're off topic...
But Nichole's! Amazing! Go visit! And I'll go wishing after France.
Nichole's Fine Pastry is located at 13 S. 8th St. in Fargo.
Visit www.nicholesfinepastry.com for hours and the seasonally changing menu.
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