The Local Flavor

Author: Sean Breen

After indulging in a cupcake from Magnolia Bakery in New York's West Village over the Easter weekend, I began reflecting on precisely what it takes to excel at baking. Fortunately I do not have to look far, because the Otter Creek Bakery epitomizes what to me defines a terrific bakery. To begin with, it is local. Opening at 6 a.m. and closing at 6:30 p.m., Otter Creek runs on two shifts and only a few visits will grant you a welcoming and familiar smile. Regulars often comment on the location as being one of Otter Creek's most important features. Situated just before the Otter Creek Bridge in downtown Middlebury, it is perfectly positioned for students who are sick of the dining hall but do not want to hike very far down Main Street.

But location is never enough - what differentiates Otter Creek, and what constitutes the foundation of any good bakery, is the quality of its products. Otter Creek Bakery buys only the best ingredients and does so almost exclusively from small local farmers and butchers. The reason is simple: amazing cuisine is only made with amazing ingredients - ranging from buttery brie imported from France and ripe avocados from California to Vermont turkey and creamy chevre cheese.

What is more, Otter Creek is innovative. Besides boasting what is probably the best bread in Vermont, Otter Creek offers a variety of savory cookies and pastries. If one is visiting in the morning hours, the honey cornmeal scone is an absolute must, as is the blueberry-oat muffins. During lunchtime, not much (absent a flight to France) can rival Otter Creek's baguettes with a wedge of brie. The custom sandwich list are also extensive and delicious. Made on their own bread and with cold cuts and veggies from local butchers and farmers, the sandwiches are heavenly whether you are a vegetarian, a "turkey-only" type of person or a die-hard Italian sub groupie, such as my roommate. My personal favorite is the "West Coaster," which consists of fresh-roasted turkey breast, avocados, sprouts, jalapeño havarti cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Otter Creek also offers daily specials, soups and salads. Their hummus is famous among Middlebury locals, quite an accomplishment considering the often accurate stereotype of the town's patrons. Otter Creek even offers daily changing "flatbreads," made throughout the day with the freshest possible ingredients and changing with the seasons.

Nor should one stop after enjoying only a sandwich - like any good bakery, Otter Creek's biggest selling point is its dessert selection. From decadent chocolate tortes, lemon tarts and confected fruit pies to white-chocolate chunk cookies, classic maple-oatmeal raisin cookies and homemade truffles, all customers will find something to suit their tastes.

Otter Creek is truly a special place. Any Middlebury student who passes four years here without at least sampling the goods is making a serious mistake and is missing out on one of Vermont's unique institutions. Located just steps off campus at the intersection of Rt. 30 and Rt. 125 in the center of Middlebury, there is no excuse. With the spring sun rapidly approaching, everyone should be heading down to Otter Creek for a sandwich, a treat and a taste of Vermont.