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By Rena Malai | Photography by Mark Gilvey
The pastries of today, largely associated with classic French cooking, actually have a long history dating back to Egyptian times.
It was a basic concoction back then, mainly made with ground grains, nuts, and seeds. The sweet and savory versions enjoyed now, known to be made with copious amounts of oil or butter, have a coveted place in many tummies and plates around the world, from traditional American pie crusts to flaky Indian
flatbreads.
The European and Asian fusions offered at Tous Les Jours give patrons a unique variety of flavors, combinations, and bakery selections. And it’s all in Gainesville’s Atlas Walk, so residents don’t have to travel far to try something new.
Whether the pastry whim is a buttery croissant or a red bean donut, Tous Les Jours delivers a twist on a classic cafe experience.
Sweets and Treats
Hans Park, Manager at Tous Les Jours in Atlas Walk, says this franchise location is run by his father-in-law, Robert Lee, and family members Sung Dong Oh and Young Dong Oh. “My father-in-law is from the area, and it’s a way to be back in the community,” said Park.
From left to right, Young Lee, Jenny Lee, and Robert Lee
Newcomers and regulars alike can expect a different kind of environment at Tous Les Jours, which means “every day” in French. According to Park, it’s a place with warmth, charm, and an unbeatable variety of coffees, teas, and bakery items to choose from.
“I don’t think there is another place in Gainesville that has the quality and variety we offer, especially when it comes to the bakery side,” said Park. “There is such a welcoming feeling here.”
Tous Les Jours is not a mainstream coffee grab and go. There is coffee, sure, and plenty of it like cafe mochas and cold brews, but there are also interesting drink combinations like honey lavender matcha lattes, boba drinks, and blended milk tea beverages.
“We’re a fusion of French and Korean takes on pastry,” said Park. “On the French side, we have items like baguettes and croissants, and on the Korean side we have items like red bean donuts and soft rolls.”
Soft rolls come in strawberry, banana, and traditional milk flavors and are similar in shape to a hot dog bun. With a mildly sweet flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture, Parks says the roll goes perfectly with a hot coffee or tea.
Park’s bakery favorites on the menu generally lean toward the filled strawberry or mango croissant, or a twist donut.
“If you’re new here, I’d suggest to try something simple, like one of the croissants. Try the caramel apple one,” he said. “Our almond croissants are also particularly popular at the moment with our customers.”
Custom, made-to-order cakes are available at Tous Les Jours. Customers can choose from a range of cloud cakes, buttercream cakes, mousse cakes, or even just a single piece of cake to enjoy anytime.
To place a cake order, stop by the Atlas Walk location or call 571-222-7095.
Break Bread
Not in the mood for anything sweet? Tous Les Jours can be a great stop for a quick lunch, and they offer freshly made breads to take home.
Lunch items on offer, like the pizza baguette and croquette kimchi, are definitely a different kind of option to eat in house or brown bag it back to the office. Customers can also get a croque monsieur — a French-style, grilled ham and cheese sandwich — or a sweet frank roll filled with sausage and cheese.
“I think a lot of people are interested in trying something different here. Then they like it and come back for more,” said Park. “We also like to offer samples so people can taste something without committing to it completely. It’s a great way to try our options.”
Bread choices like the multi-grain, whole milk, and purple sweet potato loaf can put a spin on any kind of homemade sandwich for later.
As a franchise, each Tous Les Jours may have something slightly different on offer depending on the community and location.
Since its Atlas Walk opening in November of 2022, Park is looking forward to more and more residents discovering Tous Les Jours and having a great neighborhood spot to meet, get a coffee or tea, and enjoy a perfectly made savory or sweet treat.
“There isn’t anywhere like us around here,” said Park. “People should definitely come in and give it a try.”
The Atlas Walk location of Tous Les Jours is at 7380 Atlas Walk Way in Gainesville. Hours of operation are Monday to Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday to Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For more information visit tljus.com.
Rena Malai is a freelance writer and has covered everything from food, to tech, and politics. She lives in Prince William.
