• 4
• best baked goods

Now that I've sampled a number of different items at Smith and Deli, I'm ready to declare myself a fan. Mind you, on my first few visits I was unsure, so I wouldn't guarantee you, like a previous reviewer has, that if you go in and order anything, you'll love it. On my first visit I grabbed a citrus slice, a pasta salad, and a coffee to takeaway. I've never ordered coffee there again, as I didn't like it. Too cold, very sweet notes. The citrus slice reminded me a bit of lemon curd and a bit of marmalade but I would have liked it more tart and less sweet. You can see my preference emerging here. Similarly, I thought the pasta salad needed a bit of something to cut through the garlicky, creaminess of the mayo. Based on recommendations, I went for a sandwich next time, the Temple of Doom. The BREAD! So chewy, sour, bubbly...the perfect Sanfrancisco style sourdough. The fillings were nicely balanced too - spicy jalapeños, vinegary pickles cabbage, that rich, garlicky mayo again. The bread was really the star though. I can't honesty say it was worth the price, although I know they use expensive mock ingredients. My most recent visit was the most satisfying. Potato and three cheese pizza - as expected, the base was as perfect as their bread. And the feta style vegan cheese sprinkled over the top replaced everything I miss about strong, salty, briny white cheese. And, damn, they had almond croissants! I didn't think anyone could match the ones Crumbs used to make on a Saturday but this did. Perfect. While, mostly due to the high prices, I don't really feel it's worth crossing town to eat from the deli, I'll always grab a few things when I'm in the area. And, as mentioned, the staff are exceptional so it's always a pleasant experience, no matter how busy.