Food Stuff

The closure of New Helvetia Roasters and Bakers earlier this year saddened those of us who loved the 14-year-old Midtown hangout. All is not lost, however, because many of the baked goods once featured at New Helvetia are still available at in the Curtis Park neighborhood. Originally known as “New Helvetia South” when it opened in 1994, Café Melange got its current name when the two New Helvetias’ co-owners ended their partnership. The curved display case provides a convenient view of the freshly baked goods as you wait in line, giving you time to decide whether to order a saucer-sized cookie, light buttermilk biscuit, currant scone with Devonshire cream, tall wedge of pie, rich Congo bar or any of a number of other options. Though New Helvetia’s firehouse location is history, the spirit of New Helvetia lives on at Café Melange. 2700 24th Street, (916) 451-2312.