There’s a new Parkbench along Bandra’s Carter Road, and this one, we predict, is likely to see a lot of visitors. Claiming to bake fresh every hour, the quaint patisserie and boulangerie couldn’t be more welcoming. Even if the aroma of freshly baked goodies doesn’t entice you to visit the Parkbench again, their warm and friendly attendant certainly will.

(Above) Brown Bread and (below) Lemon Tea Cake at Parkbench Bakery. Pics/Shadab Khan

When we stop by, a few days after the bakery has opened its doors to customers, a couple is already placing their order, trying hard to curb their little boy’s enthusiasm. Apologising to us for the wait, the attendant is indulgent with his young customer, allowing him to pick a mini puff from the tray that’s just been brought in from their bakery, right behind the shop.

Extending the courtesy to us, he suggests we taste a bite-sized Lemon Tea Cake. It’s a great marketing tactic, because we end up buying (and devouring) a square (Rs 50) of the soft, deliciously lemony light cake. And as if to make up for running out of the Grape Tea Cake, something he says we must try next time, he offers us a delightfully appetising Chicken Tikka Mini Puff (Rs 20 for three pieces).