L’Appartement 4F is still in my mind, the quintessential pandemic success story. What began as a couple’s apartment baking endeavor has blossomed into a brick and mortar Brooklyn Heights establishment that almost always has a queue out the door even years later. A couple years ago, it would have been easy to brush it off as a passing trend as the $50 croissant cereal took over the internet by storm. The hype has calmed down a bit since the first few months of the bakery’s opening, but its signature (full size) croissants still attract a loyal customer base in and beyond Brooklyn.

Their light, buttery croissants, which come in several flavors (highly recommend the framboise and jamon fromage). They also do other French classics like madeleines, financiers and fresh baked baguettes. The ambience feels très Parisienne, a dainty chandelier, bistro tables and chairs upstairs, wood furnishings. In the evenings, the space transforms into a wine bar with small plates for l’apero.

When you think about it, it’s actually a perfect bakery for the prettiest neighborhood in Brooklyn. A safe distance from the touristy DUMBO, a short walk from Brooklyn Heights promenade for taking your coffee and croissant to enjoy on a bench overlooking the city. And of course the demographic that can afford and appreciate a casual yet fancy French establishment.