Metropolitan Bakery

"This Rittenhouse icon started the city’s French bakery trend way back in ‘93. But it gets bragging rights for more than just its age—Metropolitan makes the city’s best canelé. Even if you’re just popping in for a baguette, get one of these caramelized little guys with a custardy center, and grab an airy almond croissant, too. The 19th Street location has an adjacent cafe that sells blistered thin-crust pizzas and sandwiches made with their incredible bread. There's also a stand at Reading Terminal Market where you can grab a sour cherry chocolate chip cookie after a roast pork sandwich." - candis mclean, alison kessler

"This Rittenhouse icon started the city’s French bakery trend way back in ‘93. But it gets bragging rights for more than just its age—Metropolitan makes the city’s best canelé. Even if you’re just popping in for a baguette, get one of these caramelized little guys with a custardy center, and grab an airy almond croissant, too. The 19th Street location has an adjacent cafe that sells blistered thin-crust pizzas and sandwiches made with their incredible bread. There's also a stand at Reading Terminal Market where you can grab a sour cherry chocolate chip cookie after a roast pork sandwich." - Alison B. Kessler

"Divine Breads at one of Philadelphia's Top Bakeries Since 1993, Philadelphians Wendy Born and James Barrett have shown a deft hand in the kitchens of their multi-location Metropolitan Bakery. Artisanal breads – able to rival any venerated loaf from Europe– are their claim to fame but their cookies, cakes, croissants and locally-sourced jams and spreads are equally as divine. They have several locations in Philadelphia , including my favorite in Chestnut Hill a bit further afield, but consistency is assured in each outpost. You can also expect to see the duo's vision (and baked goods) played out at FARMiCiA, the organic/local restaurant they co-own in Old City. If you have a hankering for something sweet, don't leave without picking up one of their toothsome chocolate chip cookies (or a few)."

"Opened in 1993, Metropolitan Bakery perhaps holds the title of grand dame of Philadelphia artisanal bread shops. It still lovingly churns out a multiplicity of loaves — from raisin nut to organic spelt — and all of them are great. You’ll find these loaves at their Rittenhouse Square and University City locations but also all over the city at a range of cafes." - Dayna Evans, Sarah Maiellano

"Metropolitan Bakery is a favorite among two-legged Philadelphians and their four-legged friends, thanks to cheap treats (just 70 cents each) shaped like dog bones. Pet parents will be happy to know the treats are all natural and made with flour, seeds, garlic, bacon fat, sea salt, and egg." - Sarah Maiellano