07/19/2026
Today was research day with my trusted panel of judges π₯°
We went to three bakeries in Sooke, then down to the beach to appreciate and analyze the unique flavors of each creationπ§π€
Before we entered the first bakery, I turned and said to my niece, " Just so you know, if I don't see anything that catches my eye, I'm walking out."
The whole display case was filled with intriguing delights. I would have been happy to stay and not visit the other two bakeries if I could see into the future. For the sake of research, I only ordered four items. The name of the bakery is Kelz and I can't recommend it enough. A must stop.
All four treats delivered π₯
The chocolate eclair is an old fashioned donut full of whipped cream, and I mean filled to the edges. The chocolate topping was second to none and I've been eating eclairs since I was under 10.
The cinnamon knot was explosively flaky and messy but the flavor was outstanding. Tony suggested a side of creme anglaise which would make it an even better experience.
The cookies were both dynamite.
The chocolate raspberry mousse was like an elevated Viva Puff.
The lemon cream cookie made the most amazing cracking sound when we broke it and it was filled with the lightest creamiest lemon cream ever! It was definitely voted Best in Show because it was visually appealing, tasted like heaven, and it was the most creative take on a lemon dessert I've ever eaten.
The other bakeries were a little underwhelming except for the carrot cake and strawberry donut which tasted more like raspberry... Like we wouldn't know π... and there was no cream inside π.
I'm going to consider this a work day except I spent money and made none π
I felt inspired and I made a great memory with some amazing people. I even went home with a side pocket full of rocks π₯°π