Tucked into a corner on Pearl Street is the Pajama Baking Company (PBC), a cute neighborhood “breakfast, lunch and ice cream shop,” according to the PBC’s website. I had to look up what particular category of food this place classifies itself as because they sell such a wide variety of goods: coffee, breakfast burritos, parfaits, loaves of bread, sandwiches, pizza, salads, ice cream and more.

The bakery is distinctively ‘Pearl Street’ with a hometown vibe and an emphasis on all-natural, local ingredients. The inside of the shop is warm and welcoming, with art from local artists for sale on the walls and plenty of local magazines and newspapers to keep lone customers entertained.

Like many other shops on the street, this one had plenty of ‘nature-yuppie’ and ‘old hippy’ types come through, but these people are rarely obnoxious and honestly hard to escape in a lot of Denver areas.

I was recommended the Club Alix sandwich, which included chicken, bacon, avocado, swiss, lettuce, tomato and chili aioli on sourdough bread. I was not disappointed. The sandwich was a great size and tasted absolutely delicious.

Sometimes, after eating at the Driscoll Subway every other day, I can come to forget what a quality, non-corporate sandwich tastes like. The Club Alix, obviously made with fresh ingredients and care, rekindled my appreciation for the classic sandwich.

I managed to save room for ice cream, and I was certainly glad that I did. PBC offers all-natural, made-in-house flavors like macadamia nut brittle, butter pecan and salted caramel, just to name a few. I tried the blueberry cheese-cake, and it was delicious. The ice cream was rich and creamy, with the perfect consistency and sweetness.

As with all shops on Pearl Street, the view outside is simply charming. As I sat in the cozy bakery, I watched the blue light of late afternoon settle over the vibrant foliage of the trees, the lights strung around trunks and branches glowing through the darkness.

While PBC offers great food at very reasonable prices, here is the true genius of the place: PBC offers the perfect dining option for people who come to shop or wander around Pearl Street but don’t want to have a heavy, sit-down meal. The shop offers plenty of snacks that could be easily carried around, as well as relatively quick options that can be taken home.

This is not to say that PCB should be only for those looking for a quick meal. On the contrary, I found myself wishing to stay longer, immersed in the lovely smells and warm glow of the place while I enjoyed the free Wi-Fi (always a plus).

For a casual dining experience that still offers delicious, high-quality food at reasonable prices, PCB is your go-to destination. The menu has such a variety that there is truly something for everyone, whether you drop in for breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert. The next time you find yourself on Pearl Street (which should be soon, it’s absolutely lovely this time of year), definitely stop by. You’ll be glad that you did.

The Pajama Baking Company is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Friday, and from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.