Pao De Mel Bakery

Oasis was closed when I stopped by yesterday, so I drove a few more yards to Pao De Mel. It took about three tries to land a parking spot because there’s probably seven spots max that is shared with a convenience store next door. The layout of this Brazilian bakery is simple – glass counter displays, large menu on the back wall, a hanging TV, and some tables; no frills.
Pamonha ($ 4.50/ea): Yes – $ 4.50 each. I’ve never tried this before, so I was pretty shocked to know I was paying quite a bit for what I thought was merely a mini-​tamale. However, this was pretty darn good! It’s a sweet corn-​based paste/​dough with a cheese filling that is steamed in corn husks. The texture is soft and definitely looks like a Mexican tamale, but it is sweet. The cheese was nothing special – chewy and overpowered by the sweetness.
Brigadeiro (Chocolate bonbon/​truffles w/​Sprinkles): Chocolate overload – chocolate outside, chocolate inside, and chocolate topping. If you love sweets, then consider giving these a try. The fudge inside was thick and very sweet, a bit too much for me. However, I am not too fond of chocolate, so this may be just right for others.
Pao Segura Marido (Ham and Cheese Bun): Pretty standard and pretty good. Ask for the buns with the cheese that is a little burnt if you like the extra chewiness and saltiness! The bread is soft, so don’t let the appearance fool you; it’s not dry. The ham was nothing special, but with the cheese and the bread, it makes a good snack.
Pudim (Flan) (~$ 2.50/ea): Very creamy, soft, sweet, and rich! The way they make pudim here is exactly how I grew up eating it. I have no complaints – these were great.
The main thing that bums me out besides the parking is the lack of pricing displayed; don’t quote me on the prices I listed. I’d probably come back for the Pamonha, pudim, and the X-​Tudo sandwiches they make.

I was introduced to this establishment when a client of mine had some of the Pao Queso (little cheese rolls) brought over by their son. They were awesome. I have been going for awhile and love them. Usually we have a drink and some of the empenadas and other snacks they keep in the heating unit on the their display case. This last visit we tried the Everything X Sandwich (not sure what the X is for? they also have X Sandwiches with Hamburgers and other variations.) It was so good. It had Egg, Ham, Potato sticks, Other Things I can’t remember but it was so good and a bit sloppy. the ingredients for each sandwich is listed on the board so you will figure it out.

Wonderful very sweet staff and environment. even though I am of a different ethnicity I never feel uncomfortable not being able to pronounce the baked goods. i always get a dozen smiles even from the customers. LOVEE IT!

I only stop by to get the Latte (galao) which is not better. It’s definitely cheaper than getting coffee at DD.
Do not stop here if you are in a hurry, it’s usually packed and you will spend 5 – 10 minutes waiting. The staff are helpful but very slow. One or two more attendants would really help during the peak hours.

It’s packed but it’s not great. The bread are normally fresh and good, but sliced cakes, normally not. So. Check it before taking a bite. Still a good place and can get much better.