Nestled in the heart of Brookline, Massachusetts, Clear Flour Bakery has been a beloved institution since its inception in 1982. With a rich history rooted in the art of traditional bread and pastry making, this bakery has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. The smell of freshly baked bread and pastries wafting through the air is enough to draw anyone in, and the quality and variety of their offerings keep them coming back. Whether you’re a fan of French baguettes, Italian ciabatta, or German rye, Clear Flour Bakery has something to delight every palate. In this article, we’ll explore the detailed menu, prices, and hours of this charming bakery, providing all the information you need to plan your next visit.
Menu Highlights
Breads
Clear Flour Bakery is renowned for its wide array of breads, which are made fresh daily and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Here are some of the standout options:
- French Breads: Baguette, demi-baguette, epi, batard, and more.
- Rustic Italian: Round, pavé, ciabatta, and rolls.
- Sourdough: Available on weekends, with variants like Seeded 7 Grain and Sourdough 2.0.
- Specialty Breads: Focaccia, Muesli Rolls, Black Sesame Sticks, and Soft German Pretzels.
- Seasonal Breads: Items like Flocken Sesam, Semolina with Fennel and Raisin, and Zwiebelbrot.
Pastries
The bakery also offers a tempting selection of pastries, perfect for a morning treat or an afternoon snack:
- Croissants: Plain, almond, chocolate, gruyere cheese, and ham & cheese.
- Scones: Cranberry orange, parmesan & black pepper, and seasonal varieties like maple walnut.
- Specialty Pastries: Morning buns, gibassier, baked currant donuts, and bostok.
Desserts and Cookies
For those with a sweet tooth, Clear Flour Bakery does not disappoint:
- Cookies: World Peace Cookie, Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookie, and classic Chocolate Chip.
- Desserts: Strawberry Rhubarb Rustic Tart, Flourless Dark Chocolate Cake, and Lemon Coconut Cream Tart.
Prices
Clear Flour Bakery offers high-quality products at reasonable prices. Here are some examples from their menu:
- German Rye: $4.95
- Pain De Mie: $6.60
- Rustic Italian: $5.75
- Soft German Pretzel: $2.75
- Sourdough: $5.45.
These prices reflect the bakery’s commitment to using simple, high-quality ingredients and traditional baking methods.
Hours
Clear Flour Bakery’s hours of operation are designed to accommodate early risers and those seeking an evening treat:
- Monday to Friday: 8 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM to 6 PM
Additionally, the bakery has a coffee bar with slightly different hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8 AM to 3 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 AM to 4 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Clear Flour Bakery unique?
Clear Flour Bakery stands out due to its commitment to traditional bread and pastry-making techniques from France, Italy, and Germany. They use simple, high-quality ingredients, including locally sourced, freshly milled flour, without any preservatives or dough conditioners.
Do you offer gluten-free options?
Yes, Clear Flour Bakery offers several gluten-free items, including their coconut macaroon and flourless chocolate cake. However, it’s important to note that these items are prepared in a kitchen that handles gluten, so they might not be suitable for those with severe gluten allergies.
Can I place special orders for events?
Clear Flour Bakery does not take special orders for pastries or breads as their items are available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, they do offer gift cards, which can be a great option for gifting their delicious products.
Do you offer vegan products?
Yes, they have vegan options such as the tahini chocolate chunk cookie. Their menu varies seasonally, so it’s best to check for the most current offerings.
What is the best time to visit for the freshest products?
The bakery opens at 8 AM on weekdays and 9 AM on weekends. Visiting early in the day ensures the best selection as some items, especially popular pastries, sell out quickly.
Are there any seasonal specialties?
Clear Flour Bakery offers a range of seasonal items, including special pastries, breads, and holiday-themed products. Their seasonal menu changes, so check their website or sign up for their newsletter for updates.
Do you provide nutritional information for your products?
Nutritional information is not typically provided for their products. However, they are transparent about their ingredients and use simple, natural ingredients in their baking.
Is there a seating area at the bakery?
Clear Flour Bakery has a coffee bar with a limited seating area where customers can enjoy their pastries and coffee.
Do you offer any classes or workshops?
As of now, Clear Flour Bakery does not offer any baking classes or workshops. Their focus is on maintaining the quality and tradition of their baked goods.
How can I stay updated on new products and events?
You can stay updated by signing up for their newsletter on their website and following them on social media platforms like Instagram. They frequently post updates about new products, seasonal items, and special events.
Visiting Clear Flour Bakery
Located at 178 Thorndike Street in Brookline, MA, Clear Flour Bakery is a must-visit for bread and pastry lovers. The bakery operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it’s advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends when the lines can get long. With a loyal customer base and rave reviews, Clear Flour Bakery continues to be a staple in the community, offering delicious baked goods that are well worth the wait.
