First Visit: Halso Konditori/Swedish Bakery

Arbutus Street between Broadway and 12th is turning into a veritable cafe and restaurant corridor thanks to the arrival of places like the Swedish Bakery Cafe, the wonderful La Petite France and Gramercy Grill.

Barb and I visited the Swedish Bakery Cafe (2668 Arbutus Street, 604 736 3335) for the first time yesterday. For those who aren't umlaut challenged, the Swedish name is: Hälsö Konditori.

We tried the Princess cake ($4 a slice). It's made up of layers of sponge cake, custard, some kind of berry jam enveloped by a nice green marzipan icing. Not too sweet, subtle marzipan, yummm! Highly recommended.

We'll definitely be back to sample their open faced sandwiches, breads, sweet buns, and cookies that are all freshly backed on the premises. Yes, real baking! Check it out!