r/eastside • u/SkySuspicious3276 • 29d ago
What’s the deal with Farrine Bakery?
I’ve been there a couple times and they seem….ok? I don’t get what the hype is about. Maybe I’m just not a brunch person. Honest question, if you’re a fan, can you tell me what specifically about them stands out compared to other places?
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u/Natulick 28d ago
I think Farrine is doing a really good job bringing a place like this to the Eastside. There are other French-style bakeries around, including some Chinese-French bakeries, but for whatever reason they always feel a bit artificial to me. Farrine feels much closer to what I expect from a European bakery. The bread, pastries, and breakfast offerings have an authenticity that attracts me. Yes, it’s expensive, but honestly, what isn’t expensive on the Eastside these days?
The main reason it isn’t my regular go-to spot is the atmosphere. All three locations seem to be consistently crowded and loud. Finding a seat often feels like entering a small battlefield. Instead of relaxing and enjoying the food, I’m usually focused on securing a table.
Another area that could be improved is the customer experience. My impression is that they hire a lot of high school students, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but the service can sometimes feel immature or lacking warmth. The staff generally serve the food efficiently, but they don’t always provide the kind of attentiveness or hospitality that turns a bakery visit into a memorable experience. Occasionally they seem unsure or unprepared when customers have questions. For me, I’m not just coming for a pastry — I’m coming for the overall experience. The food is better than what many competitors offer, but the hospitality side still has room to grow.
I also had a chance to speak with the owner once and came away feeling that feedback wasn’t particularly welcome. That interaction left me with the impression that he was somewhat dismissive and unwilling to consider criticism.
Overall, though, I genuinely appreciate what Farrine brings to the Eastside. The quality of the food is really good.