I was invited to Gatineau, a patisserie, boulangerie and chocolaterie in Summertown for a Valentine Showcase.

Mary Gatineau welcomed me and I met her husband Herve, owner and head patissier of Gatineau, and Fabian, who manages the shop, as well as a few of their regular patrons and guests.

They had prepared an array of savoury petit fours that you can pre-order for an event.

The shop has been in Summertown for eight years (lucky locals). What a luxury to be able to pop in and have a good coffee, collect an amazing loaf of bread and maybe a cake or two.

You can see why Oxford West and Abingdon MP Nicola Blackwood awarded it her Summertown small shop award in 2014.

The glass wall looking into the kitchen allowed us to watch the craftsmen at work, the team led by Herve creating three new cakes for Valentine’s Day.

Firstly, there was a salted caramel eclair filled with the most delicious smooth cream, topped with red caramel and little hearts, which was utterly delicious, the crunchy caramel topping a lovely surprise. The chocolate eclair filled with chocolate creme was incredible too.

Next up was a heart-shaped cake made with a sable biscuit base, a creme patisserie and Chantilly cream mix, covered with a red berry and white chocolate ganache, finished with a spray of gold. All for £3.95 each.

In the window there was the most beautiful giant red berry macaroon filled with cream and decorated with fresh berries and rose petals. Just right for two to share. They all looked sensational.

Intrigued, I asked what makes a superior macaroon. Fabien said he used the best quality Spanish ground almonds, filled with fruit purée or ganache.

The passion, talent and care that goes into all the food at Gatineau is clear to see. Top ingredients and a top team.

Definitely worth a visit and a lovely treat for a Valentine.

Gatineau 209 Banbury Road Summertown.
01865 311779

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