BAKESHOP

Bakeshop, in Midtown, is a self-described 'true boulangerie and patisserie.'  Upon entering, all of the pastries and desserts are immediately visible and the smell of butter is in the air.  There are several types of pastries that you can help yourself to and a dessert case with other cakes and tarts. 

The croissants looked great so I sampled an almond and almond-chocolate kind (butter and chocolate versions are also available).  The croissants were flaky and delicious topped with a sugary glaze.  I preferred the almond as the almond-chocolate was a bit too sweet.  The croissants are very rich and at $2.75, not cheap.  I was happy to share one and save the other for the next day.

I returned to Bakeshop one day around lunchtime and decided to try one of their sandwiches.  It was a choice between a grilled cheese or a vegetable panini (essentially a fancier grilled cheese).  I chose the panini which contained mozzarella, roasted red peppers and balsamic vinegar between slices of ciabatta ($7.50).  The bread was toasted nicely but the balsamic flavor was quite strong.  I found the sandwich to be nothing special and not worth repeating. 
I got a loaf of honey whole wheat bread and a pecan, apricot, white chocolate scone to go.  The bread was very chewy and flavorful.  The scone turned out to be a triangular cookie, not a traditional flaky scone, and definitely a waste of money. 
I'll probably go back to Bakeshop if I'm in the area but not for lunch.  The long tables inside are close together and can get crowded quickly.  In warmer weather there is also seating outside, next to a fountain, to enjoy a coffee and croissant.