- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Croissant Du Jour
Categories: Food Bakeries Restaurants French Food Coffee & Tea Bakeries, French, Coffee & Tea [Edit]
3531 Mount Vernon Rd SECedar Rapids, IA 52403
(319) 363-7767
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 6:30 am - 4 pm
Sat 7 am - 4 pm
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
27 reviews for Croissant Du Jour
Review Highlights
-
"I first tried the lobster bisque and it was amazing." In 6 reviews -
"...had a chance to try a bite of their ham and swiss quiche." In 3 reviews -
"Very traditional French pastries." In 9 reviews
Loading...
27 reviews in English
-
Review from Fred V.
Marion, IA
12/16/2011
The croissants... Buttery and flakey. The soup... Wonderful and rich. The tarts... to die for. Strangest hours in the world but still manage to stay afloat. More power to them!
-
Review from Rojith P.
Cedar Rapids, IA
4/5/2012 2 Check-ins Here
What a find! Thanks to Yelp, I finally managed to try this place out a few times, and the reviews have not been misleading. A great little French cafe/bakery that is a fresh change from the usual in the Cedar Rapids area. I am yet to try some of their desert/sweet dishes, as I've only been having their quiches, and sandwiches and soup. And they were delicious.
Croissant Du Jour is found a small strip mall in Mt. Vernon. Both times I went, there was a line of regulars queuing up for their usual Saturday lunch. Space is fairly limited, but they do a good job of setting up tables and utilizing their space. The decor is classier than expected, and quite clean.
The Croque Madame- a pannini style ham & Swiss sandwich with a over easy egg on top is very tasty! And the lobster bisque.....amazing! Their quiches are also tasty, no matter what they have on that day. Their portions felt ideal for lunch. I also love how they advertise Orangina!
Can't wait to try their tarts and other sweet goodies...but just looking at their treats gives me a sweet tooth! -
Review from April G.
St Paul, MN
7/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
There used to be a crappy secondhand clothing store in this building that my mom would drag me to when I was young and lived in CR. Croissant Du Jour is approximately infinity better than that crappy old store.
I bought two different fruit tarts and the "french cheesecake" tart. Let's just say that I would have been happy to eat all of it myself, but was forced to share with the rest of my family. The cheesecake was the absolute best cheesecake I've ever eaten.
Let me give you an illustration: On this three day trip to CR I stayed in a hotel for 2 nights with my infant who slept for 3 hours each night, a very creepy man approached my 10 yo girl and attempted to lure her away from me, I hit a bump in the road which gave me a flat tire and did front end damage that cost me $850 that I had to fix before I could drive back home to the Twin Cities, and a bee stung me in the bottom of my foot. Not only that, but I hated CR before this awful trip, and I now, the day after getting home, I am already wondering how soon I can plan my next trip...So I can get many more treats from this hidden gem.
If you live closer than me, please please go often so that it will still be there when I get back!! -
Review from Tara R.
Marion, IA
12/30/2011
From the outside, you would never find this place. It is located in a strip mall on a far side of town. Inside it is very charming and classier than expected. The menu differs from other places in Cedar Rapids. The portions are right size for lunch, but if you are expecting typical midwestern portions, you may be disappointed.
-
Review from Rae C.
Chicago, IL
1/26/2011
I'm not sure exactly how I ever lived in Iowa without finding this place. Nestled unsuspectingly next to a True Value and a Dollar General on Mt. Vernon Rd, it's easy to drive past this place without thinking about it twice. I had driven past it so many times and never noticed. It wasn't until a friend introduced me to this place when she told me she was going to order some pastries from here. I assumed it was just a bakery, but when I went on their website I saw they have a pretty fabulous lunch menu. There are tons of classic French cafe items and all sounded delicious which led me to stopping by during their 11am - 2pm lunch hour. It was busy and there was a line almost out the door. The wait was a bit daunting but I was able to view their menu again and check out their daily specials.
When I finally ordered I decided to try a little bit of everything. I ordered half of the club sandwich, a cup of lobster bisque, and a slice of ham and swiss quiche. I sat down at a table in the corner and my food was out in about 5 minutes. I first tried the lobster bisque and it was amazing. It's creamy and rich with a little bit of a bite to it. It was perfect for a chilly fall day. Next I dug into the quiche. The filling was light and fluffy with generous amounts of both ham and swiss. The crust had a nice flaky texture too, which is so important when it comes to quiche. The club sandwich only sealed the deal. The ingredients are fresh and I love that it comes on a croissant.
Croissiant du Jour is great for lunch because of the portions. I usually stop by when I'm running errands in Cedar Rapids and I want to be able to enjoy good food and not be weighed down for hours afterwards. Be prepared to wait during the peak lunch hours and try the pastries if you miss lunch. Cedar Rapids has a true gem here. -
Review from Janice M.
Tucson, AZ
11/27/2010
Crossiant Du Jour was another good find on Yelp. This French bakery/breakfast/brunch spot was definitely a surprised discovery. This place only opens from 11am-2pm. They serve various kinds of bakery goods (croissants, brioches, assortments of tarts, and cakes) to delicious breakfast/brunch items (quiches, salads, sandwiches, and soups). Their deliciously brewed coffee and other espresso-based drinks are remarkably better than well-known chains, like Starbucks.
From my one-time visit, I had vanilla latte, and brioche with butter and apricot jam spread. The latte was well made, not too sweet, but however I found it a little too weak for an espresso drink. The brioche was good, but their spread was just like any regular store bought butter/jam - nothing special.
I also had a chance to try a bite of their ham and swiss quiche. It was appetizingly delightful. The restaurant was extremely busy. People stood around, waiting for tables. Many carried boxes of their good-looking pastries home. I was pleasingly stunned to find an authentic French bakery in Cedar Rapids, IA. -
Review from Matt M.
Chicago, IL
9/19/2010
It isn't too often that I get out to the Cedar Rapids area, but when I do I will be sure to return to Crossant Du Jour. The restaurant and bakery is run by ex-pat French, who leave each July to return to France and close down for two weeks. My visits bookended their vacation last year at the beginning and end of a road trip.
The first visit was just for their baked goods; a chocolate croissant and some pastries were excellent sustenance for a 850 mile drive to Boulder, CO, and just as good the next morning as when we picked them up. The second visit was for lunch at the bakery. They're only open from 11-2, so make it a point to be on time! I went simple, having 'Le Club' to get a chance to sample another of their croissants. Everything they piled on the croissant was fresh and delicious, and it all went exceptionally well with the lobster bisque.
If you happen to be in the area, do yourself justice and visit Croissant Du Jour every day for lunch. -
Review from Jennifer S.
Cedar Rapids, IA
11/12/2011
Outstanding French bakery and breakfast/lunch location. Ample portions at very fair prices for the quality. Charming atmosphere and decor. The croque monsieur is excellent, but not covered in broiled cheese as I am used to, but still an excellent sandwich. Best French onion soup you can find in CR!
-
Review from Ann D.
Cedar Rapids, IA
8/17/2011
This is my local neighborhood spot. I love the story of how they got started and I love the way the whole family is involved in making this a very special place to dine. They use fresh, quality ingredients in all their foods. Very traditional French pastries. Always top notch service, but they do get slammed at lunch so I try to go a little early or a little late to avoid the rush. All in all, one of my favorites in Cedar Rapids.
-
Review from Marina C.
Vancouver, WA
8/7/2010
So, I was driving to visit my girlfriend in Toledo (this may be the only reason to visit Toledo). Jackboots, check. Duster so I can fit in with the locals, check. Leather driving gloves, check. Something like 40 hours of driving a vehicle and three nights later... ..."Uhm, what, your basement flooded?"
You see, my sister lives in Cedar Rapids, so I was hoping to skimp on a hotel. She had just moved into the basement of a friend's house with her boyfriend. That basement promptly flooded (Iowa is getting permanently wetter due to global warming, so there's lots of rain). We lived together until, oh, a bit more than a year ago, so I really wanted to check up on her... Which ended up being me crashing on the floor of the old apartment they hadn't vacated yet while moving. I was too tired to care.
I woke up the next morning and Amy was there banging on the door after I'd showered, and cheerfully presented me with two pastries and a cup of coffee. The coffee was superb, by the standards of drip coffee (Amy's a Dr. Pepper addict and never understood the regional obsession in the PacNorWest for lattes). And the Croissant was, well. I think maybe the one I had as a little kid in a very expensive hotel in downtown Victoria, BC maybe, maybe was as good as it was. Maybe.
The associated pastry was also desperately, perfectly good, and then Amy told me the full story of the restaurant including the dinners they offer some nights with a single menu option that are reservation-only and prepared to all possible exquisite French fineness. Anyway, based on the pastries and coffees alone I'd give Croissant Du Jour 5 stars as a breakfast place, but I trust my sister, so just go there anytime and it will be awesome. -
Review from Kelly F.
Cedar Rapids, IA
6/15/2011
Buttery puff pastry? Check. Sugared apple slices? Check. That's all I need for breakfast. Well, that and a Diet Cherry Dr. Pepper. The puff pastry was so flaky that bits of it were falling down my shirt. That's a sign that it's good. Next time I'm getting the strawberry tart, it's a round little thing with sliced strawberries on top for $4.75. Does it get any better? I think not.
-
Review from Carla P.
North Liberty, IA
2/9/2010 2 photos
Brunch/Lunch is perfect at Croissant Du Jour! You almost feel like you're in a whole different world.
Their french baguette's are to die for. The sandwiches are heavenly.
My favorite is the Niçoise sandwich with a cup of Lobster bisque. Then my husband and I share a slice of quiche and dessert.
It is a small quaint place and family operated. I always bring people to this place to show them what Iowa has to offer! -
Review from Jodee R.
Cedar Rapids, IA
9/27/2011
Delicious!!!!! Love the lobster bisque and tomato bisque. Sandwiches are lovely and desserts are awesome. Croissants are flaky and buttery and totally bad for you, but super yummy. Just wish the drive didn't take so long so I could get there for lunch more often during the week!
-
Review from mel c.
Homestead, IA
10/23/2009
If you need to go to France, but are on a budget- go to this place. I had the spinach quiche with some sort of magically thin crispy cheese crunch to it and it was the first thing I thought of this morning when I woke up. It is a must yelp.
Family owned/operated just makes it that much sweeter! -
Review from Ashlee V.
Kaukauna, WI
8/1/2010
Let me be frank: Croissant du Jour is what all restaurants should be like. It has the entire package: good food, cheap prices, and a lovely atmosphere.
Albeit, the joint is small--almost a little too small--it's in a strip mall. And honestly, that's not necessarily a bad thing as you're closer to your party and can hear them a little better.
The food is fan-freaking-tastic. I had a special of Le Parisian sandwich with the soup of the day (a cream of cauliflower with crab meat)--I don't even like crab but I gobbled this down fast. My significant other had a ham and swiss cheese quiche with a lobster bisque--ugh. So good!
But the best way to judge a French place is by its pastries--and oh god, does this place deliver. I bought a chocolate croissant and a chocolate brioche and both were phenomenal. It tasted like I was back in France and having them from a little patisserie.
This place is flawless. Go here. and I promise you won't regret it. My mouth salivates for their croissants. -
Review from Leena M.
San Jose, CA
7/14/2009
Every time I come to visit good ol' CR, I ask my mom to take me to Croissant du Jour for lunch. For $5 you get a great piece of quiche and either a salad or cup of soup that is made daily. I still remember, even though it has been two years since I've been there, the tomato basil bisque and the delicious quiche. The crust was so flaky and the filling so creamy.
I've also had their Madeline cookies which are pretty good. -
Review from Jim B.
Cedar Rapids, IA
4/27/2008
Everything is great about this place. The food is excellent...some of the best you can get in this city. The pastries and desserts are authentic french, fresh, and just perfect.
I've eaten here for lunch on a number of occasions and have always been satisfied with the experience. Be sure to try the variety of soups; French Onion is a standard as well as the special soup of the day...you won't be disappointed.
I'd love to try the once a month dinner special, maybe even for our 5th anniversary which is coming up in a couple of months!
My only wish is that they could put some tables out doors and have the family dog wandering around the place, then it would feel 100% authentic French! -
Review from Shaun C.
Cedar Rapids, IA
4/23/2008 1 Check-in Here
Wonderful bakery and lunch spot. Fresh baked authentic French delicatessen, sandwiches, salad, pastries and desserts.
Best part is once a month they do a dinner. $45 for 5 or 6 course meal. Exquisite! Last one I went to had the following courses:
1) Scallop and Sweet shrimp on tarragon reduction
2) Fresh greens salad and sweet bread (look up that one - Grin)
3) Lemon sorbet
4) Beef Wellington with baked mashed potatoes and red wine reduction leeks
5) Cappuccino flourless cake.
Best part is that was January 19th (middle of winter!)
http://www.croissantdu... -
Review from George X.
Marion, IA
12/22/2010
I had driven by this place for several YEARS and never knew it even existed. It is hidden that well. It was only seeing it here on Yelp that I learned of it. I had to give it a try after seeing so many great reviews here.
I went to try a sandwich. I ended up having the special... Beef Burgundy. It was fantastic! For me, any meal I can enjoy without the need to season further is a great meal. Also had the Shiitake Mushroom Soup, which was good, but nothing to scream about. Both dishes were very hot, which I appreciate. Luke-warm food is disappointing to me.
Fresh bread. Fast and friendly service. Good prices.
Only real complaint food-wise was that the chocolate croissant I bought to take home had very little chocolate. That was disappointing.
They gain a star from me because they have a sign on the door informing people to not save seats unfairly (limited seating + popular). Nice. Takes courage. I like that.
However, they lost that star with another sign on the register that says no credit cards under $5... which is a violation of their merchant agreement regarding credit card use and acceptance.
All in all, a very pleasant surprise. I will be back. -
Review from Anne N.
Madison, WI
10/11/2011
This place is ridiculously good. Basically, if you stay in, go through or are near Cedar Rapids you must stop for breakfast or lunch - you won't regret it. My husband got the bacon quiche & I got the spinach quiche, we shared a strawberry tart. All of it was fabulous.
-
Review from Jake B.
Cedar Rapids, IA
12/28/2010 1 Check-in Here
By no means am I a French cuisine connoisseur, but I have to say Croissant Du Jour was excellent. My girlfriend and I both had the Lobser Bisque, which was delicious, then I had the ham & swiss quiche while she had "Le Club" (a croissant sandwich with turkey, bacon, swiss and a couple other ingredients). We both thoroughly enjoyed those as well. To finish it off we had a Napoleon (flaky layered pastry with custard and powdered sugar).
All components of the meal were excellent including the service. I want to go back already so I can try something else on the menu... -
Review from DON B.
Cedar Rapids, IA
1/30/2011
First real eclair in 10 yrs of north american life! Btw, when I was a kid pla es like this were the norm and I guess they still are in every rural or urban area in...France.
-
Review from Jake O.
Omaha, NE
8/23/2011
I have only eaten here once, but it was fantastic. Strongly recommended. Won't waste time with redundant details when everyone else has done such a good job of reviewing, just know that it's excellent.
-
Review from Shawn M.
Cedar Rapids, IA
4/15/2010
Just had a fantastic lunch here (2nd time). The spinach and swiss quiche was really good along with the carrot and ginger soup. I also had a coffee eclaire which was a delightful finisher. The house blend coffee was nicely brewed and the prices are reasonable. The selection is not vast and you might be a little intimitated if you don't know how to pronounce things in French (I don't unless I follow it with pardon my...). Lunch can get a little crowded so beware! Don't leave here without trying one of the many dessert offerings.
-
Review from HOLLY M.
Oak Park, IL
1/15/2011
Enjoyed a fantastic lunch, and took home one of the very best chocolate croissants I've ever enjoyed! I'll be a regular at this restaurant.
-
Review from Monroe R.
Iowa City, IA
3/12/2011
Excellent lunch. Wonderful baked goods. French trained owner. Small restaurants flows beautifully, great service. Will definitely make the 30 minute drive again.
-
Review from Carolyn S.
Iowa City, IA
2/28/2010
Who would have thought that a French cafe would be thriving in the middle of Iowa? The owner worked in a pastry shop in France where he met his wife. Lucky for us, the two of them eventually moved to Iowa to be closer to family. The result is a lovely little cafe where the cappuccinos are served in large mugs and the croissants are buttery heaven. We opted for the turkey club sandwich served on a croissant with the lobster bisque, and the grilled vegetable sandwich served on a delicious baguette. The turkey in the club was thick cut and juicy, the croissant was fantastic. Impressively, the lobster bisque was thick and flavorful, with bits of lobster mixed in. Delish! The vegetable sandwich was also very good. The vegetables were perfectly cooked and gave the sandwich great flavor and texture. We grabbed a few pastries to go and oggled the gorgeous cakes as we left. I will definitely be back again soon.
