Flour Water Salt Bread

For discerning palates across Connecticut, particularly those with a keen appreciation for artisanal baking, Flour Water Salt Bread in Darien stands out as a true gem. Located at 20 Grove Street, this bakery has cultivated a reputation for excellence, driven by the passion and skill of baker Rob VanKeuren. This isn't just a place to grab a quick bite; it's a destination where the art and science of baking converge to create products that are consistently described as "amazing," "sublime," and "delicious." Specializing in naturally leavened sourdough bread and expertly crafted pastries, Flour Water Salt Bread offers a unique and highly satisfying experience for anyone in Connecticut seeking top-tier baked goods.

The name "Flour Water Salt Bread" itself reflects the simplicity and fundamental purity of their craft. While the ingredients are basic, the results are anything but. Customers frequently rave about the "perfectly layered and beautifully crafted croissant" that is "flaky, buttery, Sublime!" and "warm sourdough chocolate chip cookie" with "the perfect amount of sweetness." This level of perfection comes from a meticulous, often multi-day process, particularly for their sourdough, which undergoes a long fermentation to develop its deep flavor and unique texture. For Connecticut locals, this means access to bread that is not only delicious but also easier to digest, thanks to the natural leavening process.

Beyond their signature sourdough and croissants, Flour Water Salt Bread offers a diverse array of pastries and other baked goods that demonstrate both creativity and a commitment to flavor. From New York-style cinnamon swirl coffee cake made with brioche dough to Kouign-Amann (a salted caramel croissant-muffin hybrid) and Italian bombolini, their selection ensures there's always something new and exciting to try. The dedication to using high-quality ingredients, such as 82% European butter for their croissants and organic whole wheat flour from New York State for their sourdough, further elevates the taste and experience. This focus on quality and innovation makes Flour Water Salt Bread a compelling and cherished establishment for the Connecticut community.

Flour Water Salt Bread is conveniently located at 20 Grove Street, Darien, CT 06820, USA. This address places the bakery in the heart of downtown Darien, a vibrant and easily accessible area in Fairfield County. Grove Street is well-known, ensuring straightforward navigation for those traveling from within Darien or from neighboring towns like Norwalk, Stamford, or New Canaan. The location benefits from being part of a bustling district, often near other popular establishments, making it a convenient stop for locals running errands or enjoying a leisurely outing.

For customers arriving by car, the Darien location typically offers free parking in a nearby lot, alleviating the stress often associated with finding a spot in popular retail areas. This ease of parking is a significant advantage, allowing for a more relaxed and convenient visit to the bakery. The accessibility of Flour Water Salt Bread is further enhanced by its presence in a town well-connected by local roads, ensuring that a broad base of Connecticut residents can easily reach this acclaimed bakery.

The shop itself is designed for a pleasant customer experience. While popular, leading to occasional lines, the efficiency of their service ensures that customers move through quickly. The aroma of freshly baked goods often greets visitors, adding to the inviting atmosphere. Flour Water Salt Bread also offers convenient service options, including takeaway and in-store pick-up, catering to those who wish to quickly grab their desired items. This focus on both location and service accessibility underscores their commitment to providing a seamless experience for the Connecticut community.

Services Offered:

• Artisan Sourdough Breads: A signature offering, including their classic sourdough loaf (made with King Arthur flour, water, and salt, with 10% organic whole wheat), sourdough baguette (22" long), and sourdough whole wheat loaf. All sourdough breads (except brioche) are dairy-free and vegan.
• Croissants and Laminated Pastries: Features a variety of exquisitely crafted croissants (plain, pain au chocolat with Valrhona dark chocolate, almond, chocolate almond, ham & Comte cheese), Kouign-Amann (salted caramel croissant-muffin hybrid), and Cardamom Buns (croissant dough with cardamom, orange zest, brown sugar).
• Specialty Pastries: Includes New York-style cinnamon roll coffee cake (made with brioche dough and orange-infused vanilla icing), Bomboloni (Italian fried brioche donuts with daily fillings), and new offerings like apple turnovers and lemon puff pastry tarts.
• Cookies: Offers unique cookies like the Malted, Sourdough, Brown Butter, Chocolate Chip Cookies topped with Maldon salt and homemade sourdough breadcrumbs.
• Savory Items: Provides sandwiches made on their fresh breads, and has expanded to include salads and sourdough pizzas (also available as bake-at-home options).
• Coffee and Beverages: Serves Sey coffee from Brooklyn, including espresso drinks, lattes, and cappuccinos. Also offers teas from Kettl (including matcha latte).
• Housemade Cream Cheeses: Available for bagels (which will be a new offering soon), with options for customization.
• Take-and-Bake Options: Offers frozen take-and-bake croissants, cinnamon rolls, and sourdough pizzas, allowing customers to enjoy fresh-from-the-oven treats at home.
• Pre-orders: Accepts same-day (until 2 pm) and next-day pre-orders (after 3 pm) online for convenience.

Features / Highlights:

• Naturally Leavened Sourdough: A core focus, known for its long, three-day fermentation process that results in superior flavor, texture, and digestibility.
• "Perfectly Layered and Beautifully Crafted Croissants": Consistently praised for their flakiness, butteriness, and overall sublime quality.
• Acclaimed Baker Rob VanKeuren: The owner is highly regarded for his passion, dedication, and expertise in artisan baking, consistently striving for perfection.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Uses premium components like King Arthur flour, 82% European butter, Valrhona chocolate, and organic whole wheat flour.
• Innovative Pastry Selection: Offers both classic favorites and unique creations (e.g., Kouign-Amann, Bombolini, Cardamom Buns), keeping the menu exciting.
• Dairy-Free and Vegan Sourdough Bread: Caters to specific dietary needs with its naturally leavened sourdough, appealing to a broader customer base.
• Dedicated to Freshness: Bakes items fresh daily, ensuring optimal taste and quality.
• Strong Local Following: Has built a loyal customer base due to consistent quality and unique offerings.
• Commitment to Reducing Waste: Donates daily unsold breads and pastries to Food Rescue, showcasing a commitment to community and sustainability.

Contact Information:

Address: 20 Grove St, Darien, CT 06820, USA

Phone: (203) 808-9945 (Note: This phone number appears to be for Eric's Bagels, another business. For Flour Water Salt Bread, contact information is typically found through their website or by visiting in person. Public information directly linking a phone number specifically for Flour Water Salt Bread in Darien is not readily available, so the general contact form on their website or in-person inquiry is recommended for direct communication).

In conclusion, Flour Water Salt Bread at 20 Grove Street in Darien, CT, is an essential destination for Connecticut residents seeking genuinely exceptional baked goods. Its prime location in downtown Darien offers convenient access for locals throughout Fairfield County, making it a natural stop for daily indulgences or special occasion treats. The bakery's unwavering commitment to the craft of baking, particularly with its signature naturally leavened sourdough that undergoes a meticulous multi-day process, results in products that are consistently lauded for their superior flavor and texture.

The extensive array of offerings, from their "sublime" croissants and inventive pastries like Kouign-Amann and bombolini to savory options and high-quality coffee, ensures there's something to delight every palate. For locals in Connecticut who prioritize freshness, artisanal quality, and a unique culinary experience over mass production, Flour Water Salt Bread stands out as a true culinary gem. It's more than just a bakery; it's a testament to the art of baking, providing a delightful and enriching experience that keeps customers returning for more.

Flour Water Salt Bread

20 Grove St, Darien, CT 06820, USA