When it comes to trying a new study spot, I look for three things: clean tables, free and fast WiFi and a great bathroom. Even Dough Bakery hits every mark. Oh, and the beautiful, delicious pastries are a plus, too.
With a pretty pink theme and ample outdoor patio space, I was immediately enamored. I settled into a corner table and gawked at the display chock-full of delectable desserts and savory items, from stuffed bagel bites to pumpkin whoopie pies. Every item was intricately designed and well-organized behind the glass, including multiple gluten-free and vegan options.
It was around 11 a.m. on a dreary Sunday. However, despite the unwelcoming weather, the patio was bustling with energy. Adults enjoyed coffee and conversation while children wandered around the expansive deck. Music drifted over from an outdoor concert at Weaver Street Market, competing with the upbeat mix inside the bakery. As for the two restrooms, they were heavenly. Each was large and clean, and smelled like freshly baked bread.
I ordered an iced latte and a slice of their carrot bread, which came out to just over $11. By the register, there was a plate filled with complementary bites of banana bread. I made my way to the register and received my carrot bread on a small paper plate. Before going back to my table, I couldn’t resist taking a bit of the banana bread along with me as well.
A small counter was set in the corner with all the coffee bar supplies one could hope for, including complementary cinnamon, cream and sugars. There is something very comforting about an establishment that has an abundant coffee bar — it feels like a luxury of some sort.
I sat down at my table, the gentle light from the large window behind me reflecting off my coffee. As I unpacked my bag, still unsure of whether I was ever going to open my laptop, I carved a bite of my pastry out with a spoon, ensuring the perfect ratio of cream cheese frosting and base.
I am no dessert connoisseur, but I thought my pastry was perfect. Just sweet enough to balance out the carrot, but not too sweet to be unreasonable as a morning dish. I savored every bite, intermittently sipping on my coffee so that both could be enjoyed equally.
Normally, I would feel pressure to begin working, in fear that sitting at a table without my fingers busy and eyes focused would mean taking a seat away from someone else. However, Even Dough allows you to make of it what you want.
Though officially a bakery with magnificent custom cakes and gourmet items, visitors could sit in silence with just a drip coffee, simply enjoying the space. There was no rush and no expectations.