Runner & Stone's Chocolate-Almond Croissant is Sublime

[Photographs: Niko Triantafillou]

It's no secret that Runner and Stone in Gowanus has superb bread and some very nice baked goods. But the Chocolate Almond Croissant ($3.50) belongs among the city's best. Chocolate croissants are common things; almond croissants too. The combination of both is rare and well worth a look.

Crunchy laminated dough makes this croissant so special, especially when contrasted with soft interior layers that are completely saturated with almond paste and soft, high quality dark chocolate. There's not a dry spot in this croissant.

Each bite brings all three winning characteristics: the crunchy exterior, almond-soaked buttery dough layers, and rich dark chocolate. Savor each crunchy, crackly morsel, then when you're finished, get another one. These croissants, though wonderful, are small.