Tartine Bakery on the corner of Guerrero and 18th in San Francisco used to be my neighborhood bakery when I lived there a few years ago. Tartine has so many delicious baked goods, lunch choices, goodies and strong espresso, plus an awesome location near Delores Park -- it's no wonder the line is usually out the door and around the corner.
While many tout the joys of the pressed sandwiches and (amazing) bread, bread pudding and chocolate mousse, I LOVE their tiny, underplayed Almond Rochers. These little meringue cookies may be the least expensive choice on the menu, but they are so so good. Meringue-y, yet crumbly, chewy and crunchy, a little marshmallow-y, nutty. They are sweet, unassuming and absolutely delicious. And they keep their integrity for a long time: up to two weeks! Enjoy these with tea, with coffee, in the morning, afternoon or evening. They can be crumbled on top of ice cream. But, seriously, they are perfect all on their own. Despite needing to have a few things organized, they are also simple to make.
