Blackbird Baking Co.’s Spinach and Feta Croissant
For a savory take on the breakfast staple, try this option ($4.25) which highlights the subtle flavor of spinach and strong taste of feta. “It’s been used in Greek cooking and Mediterranean cooking for centuries, millennia,” says owner Tom Clark. “It’s just one of those flavor combinations that’s been around forever.”1391 Sloane Ave., Lakewood, 216-712-6599, blackbirdbaking.com
Fluffy Duck Cafe’s Chocolate Croissant
With a flaky outside, soft inside and rich flavors of Valrhona chocolate, this croissant ($4.25) makes morning a little more decadent. After a three-day process of making these tempting treats, they are then baked fresh each day for customers. “People are just getting fresh, hot pastry right out of the oven,” says baker and owner Ben Woods. “It’s like grandma’s house, it’s so fresh.” 10001 Chester Ave., Cleveland, 216-218-9447, fluffyduckcafe.com
Great lakes Baking Co.’s Almond Croissant
To make this creation ($4.50), the bakers start with a fully baked croissant that’s split in half. Then they dipped it in simple syrup and cover it in frangipane, an almond pastry cream. After sandwiching it back together, they top it with more frangipane and sliced almonds and bake it again. “It’s very almondy, it’s very lovely,” says Corina Gaffney, owner and head pastry baker. 85 S. Main St., Suite A, Hudson, 330-342-5878, greatlakesbakingcompany.org
On The Rise Artisan Bread & Pastries’ classic Croissant
The staff at On the Rise know when someone fully enjoyed the classic pastry ($3) — the table is covered with croissant flakes. “It’s got so much complexity of flavor that it stands on its own without the need for anything else,” says Brian Evans, managing partner. 3471 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-320-9923; 3407 Tuttle Road, Shaker Heights, ontheriseartisanbreads.com
Terrapin Bakery’s Bacon Gruyere Croissant
Made with Djion mustard, Gruyere cheese, bacon and then topped with rosemary, this option ($3.95) is great for those looking for something a little heartier. “It’s one and done and you can go. It’s just fantastic,” says co-owner Courtney Bonning. 3146 W. 14 St., Cleveland, 216-256-7915, terrapinbakery.com
