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Ok, so I had a relapse with my bronchitis that kept me from really dining well, but I am going to make up for lost time. As some of you are aware, I am in the process of a huge move. My illness affected not only my appetite but also my brain, as I locked myself out of the apartment I’m moving out of. It was almost noon, and I was starting to feel hungry. My poor mother was with me, and she suggested we go grab a bite to eat while we wait for my landlords to return my plea to let me in. I suggested we take a walk to my favorite bakery/deli/café, Blé d’Or, which is French for Wheat of Gold.

I found this place years ago because a friend brought me some really great Salade Niçoise (I think about $6) and Spinach & Feta Quiche ($3). I was very impressed because the salad tasted really fresh, and the quiche was loaded with spinach. I have had “spinach” quiches before where I would find a few measly pieces. After a lot of bribing, my friend confessed where he got the food from. I’ve been going to Blé d’Or ever since, and I like the “Mom & Pop” family management style. I think when I first started going there, the ownership had just changed hands. I heard some negative comments from old customers, but since I had never been there under the previous management, I really can’t say anything about the difference. All I cared about was that the food was good. I’ve also bought the quiches and pastries (e.g., apple pie, croissants, etc.) for other people who have enjoyed the quality of the food, too.

I liked how Blé d’Or is open at 7am every weekday. Back when I used to work in Culver City, I would often stop in to pick up a breakfast combo - croissant sandwich and coffee for $2.95. Blé d’Or also offers huge omelettes with toast and your choice of hash browns or (my preference) country potatoes. Walking in there first thing in the morning is sure to make anyone hungry with the breads and pastries baking. Another tip: spinach croissants! I’m never hungry after one of those.

Back to today though… My mother prefers dining at nice, comfortable places, so I had to forewarn her that she might not like the appearance of Blé d’Or, but she’s had their food and enjoyed it. We got there and really had a hard time deciding what to order. With the daily lunch specials, the really good salads, and big sandwiches, it was hard to choose. We finally ordered two coffees (and they will do the steamed foam milk for you), a Spinach & Feta Quiche, and an extremely generous portion of Grilled Salmon with Salad lunch special ($6.50). The filet of grilled salmon was lightly seasoned and placed on top a huge plate of mixed greens. On top of the salmon were some cripsy onions. I wish I had my camera with me earlier today so that I could show you just how much food this was. The total bill? After tax and tip, $14.50. I have gone to nicer restaurants where I was served (a lot) less salmon and salad and got charged about $17.

My mother and I watched the lunch rush come - a mixture of to-go orders and relaxed diners. The service was always courteous whether you are a first-timer or a returning patron, though you could tell who the regulars were. The staff at Blé d’Or was even kind enough to let me use their phone book to find a locksmith, but while I was flipping through it, my landlord called me back and agreed to unlock the doors for me. Happy ending all around…

Additional tips:

Parking can be tight on Washington Blvd., but there are usually spots on the residential side streets and a small parking lot in behind the stores.

Don’t be turned off by the eclectic menu. Yes, it’s supposed to be a French bakery, but so what if it offers Turkey Burgers, Chicken Terriyaki, and Chichen Katsu lunch specials?

Blé d’Or is located right next to my favorite bar, Joxer Daly’s. It’s a bit of a dive, but I love it. I have always had a great time there, especially with the colorful locals. One of the cool things about Joxer Daly’s is it allows you to bring in food from other places. Why not pick something up at Blé d’Or and take it next door for a drink and game of pool at Joxer Daly’s?

Blé d’Or Bakery
11164 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 559-1863

By Pauline (see more of her posts).