Papa d'Amour Bakery, Greenwich Village

Chef Dominique Ansel, the inventor of the Cronut, explores his love of Asian bread culture at his new Greenwich Village bakery and cafe, Papa d'Amour. The imaginative blend of cultures and techniques was inspired by his children's French/Taiwanese heritage. They call him Papa d'Amour ("Papa my Love" in French), "Especially when they want something."

I planned my visit to avoid the crowds, and ordered two signature items. First up was the Hot Dog Sticky Rice Spiral (above). It's a Kurobuta black pork sausage from Japan atop sticky rice, nestled in a honey-soy glazed, laminated brioche. Does that sound overwrought? Trust me, it's not. Next, the Taro Puff Mochi Donut, a fried donut with a chewy, ethereal interior; lacy, crunchy exterior; and surprise center of strawberry-guava jam. In both items, the contrasts of textures and flavor profiles was extraordinary.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the cheery orange-and-yellow interior with bread-related artwork; the well trained, friendly staff; and Chef Ansel himself, overseeing the entire operation. I can't wait to return.

Papa d'Amour, 64 University Place, Greenwich Village. Click here for their website.