28 Sep Please The Palate Pick of the Week: Bob’s Well Bread Bakery, Los Alamos

Every trip I make to the Santa Ynez Valley, the one place that I always make a point of going to is Bob’s Well Bread. Located in the small town of Los Alamos, breakfast at Bob’s Well Bread is the perfect way to start the day and that is why Bob’s Well Bread is the Please The Palate Pick of the Week. My friends and I were up in the Santa Ynez Valley this past weekend for a little fun and relaxation. We had rented a ranch house in Santa Ynez, just a couple minutes from Los Olivos. On Sunday morning, I was insistent that we start our day with breakfast at Bob’s Well Bread and of course, everyone agreed, despite that fact that it was a 25 minute drive from where we were. But, it was worth the drive and everyone knows this is the place that valley locals as well as visitors come for breakfast. We arrived shortly after 10:30am and the outdoor seating was open, as were most of the tables inside. But, there was a long line that snaked from the counter, back to the bathroom and then looped back. I took my place in line and waited patiently for approximately 20 minutes. What I noticed from everyone in line is that everyone was smiling. Perhaps people were tired from the night before but no one was impatient or rude. Again, this is because everyone knows that in the end, this is worth the wait. Freshly baked artisanal breads and pastries are on display and it is hard to decide what to order. Almost everything is made in-house. The artisanal breads are made with 100% organic flour, sea salt and freshly filtered water and baked daily. The breads are naturally leavened and made in small batches in an Italian oven that results with the perfect crunchy crust. When it came time to order, Bob Oswaks, the owner and founder of Bob’s Well Bread,  was standing behind the counter. I have never been to Bob’s Well Bread when Bob has not been working at his own store. His passion and dedication to his business are apparent. There are so many enticing dishes on the menu, it is hard to decide. Luckily, not only was I hungry, but I was with friends who were willing to share. So, instead of choosing what to order, I was able to get the three things I wanted, among other things! Gravalox Platter – House cured salmon served with a toasted bagel, cream cheese, onions, tomato, capers & dill Egg-in-a-Jar -Purple potato puree topped with gruyere cheese, poached egg, bacon lardons, chives and crème fraiche. We ordered the lardons on the side. I cannot wait until my next trip to Santa Ynez Valley because I know where I will be going! Bob’s Well Bread Bakery 550 Bell Street, Los Alamos