Nestled into the corner of East Iowa Avenue and Pearl Street, the Pajama Baking Company is a gem in the Pearl Street District. Instead of a plate glass storefront, glass garage doors, which are left up all day, draw customers to wide, open seating and an airy atmosphere.
An indie rock radio station plays moderately loud, and the aroma of freshly baked goods drifts from the kitchen into the café. Spacious circular tables and chairs with curved backs are a perfect study combo for any student. Glass cases keep fresh pastries chilled and refrigerators are stocked with sandwiches, salads and dips made that same day.
The breakfast burrito filled with egg, cheese and green chili is a steal, costing only $3.89. Coda bean coffee costs $1.50 and up. Lunch items range from a Mediterranean salad costing $5.69, to a Black Forest ham sandwich at $6.50. Sodas, juices and water are in an open cooler, but specialty drinks such as French and Italian soda are made upon request.
Samples are often available on the countertop, such as fresh bread with delicious honey butter. The menu is not limited to what the cases hold since the kitchen staff is amiable to make up a customer’s personal order.
PBC is known for its homemade gelato. Made daily from fresh ingredients and fruits, the flavors are varied and change often, depending on the season and what fruits are available. Flavors include blueberry cheesecake and macadamia nut brittle. Sorbets are also available. Prices range from $1.75 for the “Teeny weenie” cup to $5.25 for a pint.
“Everyone who eats down at the Sushi Den comes down here for ice cream after,” said Sammy, a regular server at the PBC. Whether you are on a date or just strolling with friends, there is nothing like a little cup of gelato to jazz up the evening.
One of the most charming aspects of the PBC is its tiny indoor market. Stocked with European candy, organic mountain jam and various pastas, it is truly a mesh of Italian and American shopping experience. Fresh French baguettes cost $2.85, and day-olds are a bargain. Blueberry or peach scones, bear claws, bran muffins or cinnamon roles cost $1.95. They are still moist, even after two days.
If you are in the mood for a pastry, one of the most popular items is the pumpkin apple spice cake, served chilled and filled with fresh apple pieces and topped with a ginger glaze. Not overly sweet, it is bursting with flavor.
Rosy Wilmot, a DU freshman, said, “It tastes like Thanksgiving. It’s so good!”
If you desire a decadent desert, the pecan praline fudge offers a homemade touch with its rich flavor and thick texture.
Located at 1595 S. Pearl St., this café is a 15-minute ride down the street from campus. Students do not get discounts, but the service is friendly and the day-old baked goods are great to stock dorm fridges. Fall specials include a free scoop of ice cream or sorbet with a $10 purchase, or a free cup of Coda organic coffee with purchase of a breakfast sandwich or burrito.
Coupons are available on the counter. Open seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., the PBC is a great place to study or indulge in a pastry.
