Gustave Boulangerie & Brasserie

I can't believe that I have lived here for nearly 20 years, walked past this place many times, and just discovered it several weeks ago. WOW! The pastries and, cakes, muffins and croissants are excellent. Their homemade jams are wonderful. Their breads, quite yummy! I love their iced coffee , which has s a very subtle taste of cocoa. And, I am a very picky coffee snob. Service is sometimes a little chaotic, but the staff is super friendly. Weekend mornings are insanely busy- a reflection of how good they are. Amazing, spacious outdoor seating! LOVE this place.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Honestly true neighborhood gem, some of the best coffee I’ve had in a while. Great service usually as well. Only complaint is they have a heavy automatic door without the option of going around it. I’ve been injured as this door tried to force itself closed on me and I’ve watched several others struggle with it. Any benefit is completely outweighed by the potential for injury and hassle for customers, including those who need accommodation. An easy swinging door would be far safer for everyone and meet the needs of the community.

Lots of options to choose. Very good sandwiches (sad I never took any picture), good quality bread and fresh ingredients. Pastries are delicious. I also appreciate that they offer many mini versions to choose. Coffee is very average compared to St Elmo’s across the street. Seats may be hard to find for dine-in on weekends, but there are plenty of places to sit outside in this area.

Editing Review because of one employee there called Gisele who was SO unpleasant and outright rude that I will not order from here again. She acted like the wife of one of the owners and if I didn't like it so be it (while I called for a business idea, not a food order?) Who acts like she owns the place she thinks she is the Missus now? That just dropped the value and class this place I recommeneded to so many had. Baguette is great but I don't think you'd want to go in a French boulangerie pâtisserie to be greeted by some Brazilian hoodlum. Not a place to meet dates or professionals. I'm sorry I called about a business venture. Staff is lacking big time if she is the manager. I'd be embarrassed and ashamed to take people there. Dropping stars for that.
Pervious review: This is the best French Boulanger Pâtissier in the area. Products are so authentic and delish and good, I ❤️ it because you can taste the goodness as it's not drowned by unnecessary amont of sugar. And the service is outstanding! Non-pretentious prices, great products and outstanding service from the owner who is available and happy to serve you....what more to ask? Merci Boulangerie Gustave! 6 stars! Sauf pour tarte aux poires.. what was that??? Mini petite tarte aux poires was tasty but not the size you'd expect. C'est mon seul négatif.

Good coffee. Nice pastries

Go here often for breakfast — there is usually a long line on Saturday’s because of the farmers market but usually on other days not too busy.

My husband and I love taking our toddler here. There is an outdoor area with a large sandpit and toys for the kids to play in, surrounded by picnic benches and chairs. Usually arts market booths on Saturday from local crafters.

The food is so good! We normally go for breakfast and have tried their sandwiches, baked goods, juices, and coffees. We love trying the different pastries (they are all incredible so far). The outdoor area makes it that much more perfect in the spring/summer for having a pet or child with you. Can’t recommend enough.

One of the authentic French Bakeries in the area that provide quality products. Service was great, but they were definitely busy on a Sunday mid-morning. Waiting line blends in with the ordering line and the space can get tight in there. Bring patience. Unless you have a large party or have kids, inside seating area or out front are probably the best option for you. Sandbox and outdoor spaces can get really crowded with kids and parents on playdates. 🤗

Fair prices for the area, especially if you value fresh products with better ingredients not the flash frozen stuff served by competitors.

They need more items in their case. Bit overpriced for their salads. Disappointed with their chicken sandwich and their salad nicoise. Where is the olives and potatoes and green beans
Its plain salad with tuna, boiled eggs and mixed greens and tomato.But their crossisants are excellent but lacking in terms of being a French bakery.

The atmosphere is so cool especially if you have kids and want to hang out with some friends at the cafe!
The kids had so much fun

I really wanted to give this place a 5 stars. Unfortunately it didn't meet what I needed it to. The biggest take away, the wait time and the messy service. The service was messy because no one knew where to find whose food or drink belongs to who. We got free drinks due to the server unable to find the person it belonged to. We ordered 3 sandwiches, that were highly priced, only to receive it 1hr later... it wasn't very filling and little meat/ fillings were given for the price you're paying. The space outside was great for the kids and dogs. Love the sand box and ample lawn chairs. Great location, but parking is a struggle in its own. The staff was kind too, it made up for the wait time. But you can tell that were busy busy. I still appreciate the smiles.

Pleasant bakery and pastry shop. While the pastries are tasty, the bread is outstanding - and reasonably priced. Welcoming staff.

Numerous items (including the bread) are not available at opening time, so I recommend waiting at least half hour after posted hours.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Goooood!! Expensive on some things but very good!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Pistachio Choco Croissant, Ham and Cheese Croissant, Quiche

Excellent coffee and espresso drinks. Great service & The food is great. It’s definitely on the expensive side though.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

One of my top 3 favorite cafes in Alexandria. The pastry options and deliciousness is like no other. The pistachio chocolate croissant is my new addiction! I have not tried the sandwiches yet but they seem popular. Cappuccino and mocha is also great and I love the shaded outdoor seating. The only difficulty is deciding on which pastry to order. Some days the staff is slow, however, the manager was very reassuring that will change very soon. I appreciate his receptiveness to my disappointment and willingness to improve. It really is a wonderful place that I look forward to being at often.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Pistachio Choco Croissant, Beignet Nutella