While Rhode Island has no shortage of cafes, Madrid European Bakery infuses something new to the mix: traditional pastries and coffee selections from Spain.Owners Sergio Mendoza and Hercilia Corona opened their second location on County Road in Barrington following the success of their flagship in Providence’s Wayland Square. Their exquisite sweets have quickly become coveted showstoppers at community events.
I visited the new East Bay spot one Thursday afternoon with my fiancé, and it was a treat not only for our taste buds but for all of our senses. The moment we approached the entrance, the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked indulgences greeted us. Stepping inside felt like entering a luxury hotel cafe – sharp white decor, warm lighting, and an elegant ambiance exuded sophistication.
The bakery case is stocked with desserts, so beautifully crafted they looked almost too perfect to eat, like delicate glass sculptures. Some were familiar – mini eclairs and strawberry tarts – while others, like the Pastel Vasco and San Marcos cake, were new to me but would soon become two of my all-time favorites.
Before making the painstaking decision of which pastry to try, we took a moment to enjoy lattes from the coffee bar. Corona recommended the cafe mocha, describing it as if a chocolate bar had been dipped into the coffee. My fiancé was instantly sold. I opted for a matcha latte, which was both rich in flavor and refreshing.
Our appetites whetted, I started with the Pastel Vasco, a traditional Basque cake. The first bite was unexpectedly delightful. The golden, flaky crust shattered delicately, revealing a rich, creamy filling beneath. It was smooth, almost custard-like, yet denser, with a subtle sweetness that lingered on the palate.
We also indulged in Butter Croissants – a simple classic that, when done right, is anything but ordinary. This one was a home run, boasting airy, flaky layers infused with the perfect balance of buttery sweetness. Because the pastries were so rich and satisfying, our experience became a two-parter. We were sent home an array of mini pastries, along with a generous slice of Vanilla San Marcos cake. Even the packaging felt luxurious, with gold-embellished labeling that added an extra touch of elegance.
I’d love to say we shared our treats with family and friends, but the truth is, these tiny delights didn’t last long in our fridge. The San Marcos cake was the kind of dessert you fight over the last bite for. A return visit to Madrid European Bakery will certainly include this exquisite treat.
230 County Road, Barrington
199 Wayland Avenue, Providence
401-289-0580 (Barrington)
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