Bend, OR

Hidden across the train tracks on a dusty street rumbling with semi trucks and lined with chain-link fence, Sparrow Bakery is a bright spot in an unlikely location. The little brown brick building that houses the European-style bakery and coffee shop is tucked in amongst a particularly industrial area between downtown Bend and the Old Mill District. But don’t let the unusual locale deter you from stopping into this pleasant little shop for coffee, tea and unique, tasty baked goods.

I spent a lovely, lazy afternoon at Sparrow Bakery this past week and actually preferred the out-of-the-way location, feeling as if I had discovered a secret treasure. Sitting at one of five tables in the itty-bitty shop, I lingered over iced coffee and an ocean roll, a layered, flaky roll topped with a unique blend of spices of an almost Southeast Asian flavor (tarragon? nutmeg? cinnamon?-whatever it was, it was really good). While Sparrow Bakery does offer free wi-fi, I opted for a more old-school afternoon, bringing only my journal and a pen.

The sunny interior of the shop has a solarium feel, with windows and two screen doors allowing for plenty of natural light. Slate grey and goldenrod walls are decorated with large paintings by a local artist, many of them featuring a bird motif. Outdoor seating is also available, with tables shaded by the willowy vines crawling along the brick exterior.

In addition to scones, cookies, and croissants, the bakery also features fresh salads made from local ingredients and yummy-sounding sandwiches, including a croque-monsieur, a classic French sandwich with grilled ham and cheese. Drink offerings include lattes, espresso and French press coffee as well as loose-leaf tea, steamers and hot chocolate. An organic ginger brew on tap also peaked my interest- perhaps another time.

The skinny on Sparrow Bakery:

Where: 50 SE Scott Street. From downtown Bend, take NW Colorado Ave, following the road across the 97 Parkway. From the Old Mill District, take SW Bond, turn right onto Wilson Avenue and take a left onto 2nd Street, which turns into SE Scott Street.

Hours: Summer hours are from 9am to 2pm, Monday through Saturday.