Beignet? ...Why yes, thank you.

A beignet, which is French for "fried dough" in the U.S. is a pastry made from deep-fried dough, much like a doughnut, and sprinkled with confectioner's sugar, or frostings. Versions of beignets are also popular as an appetizer, with fillings such as maple or fruit preserves.

In Las Vegas, there is one place that does the delectable French pastry like no other- Bouchon - the popular Venetian eatery opened by Thomas Keller (of French Laundry Fame).

While attending a recent conference for work I was cordially invited to brunch with several colleagues. Not expecting to find donuts, or their French cousin Beignet on the many foraging trips we partook of, I was shocked if not pleasantly surprised when the waiter asked..."Would you care to sample our Beignets?" Would I? Does a Dog want steak? Does a cat want tuna? Do we all need oxygen to breathe??? Why of course, thank you!

Upon our waiters return my colleagues, being a health conscious bunch, were at first hesitant to partake. However, the first bite was quickly preceded by a veritable stampede of fingers, knives and trail of miniscule crumbs.

Resembling the size, coloration, and weight of an Apple Cider donut, the Beignet’s slightly crunchy exterior is covered in a spiced sugar provided a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. The inner cake is light and fluffy. Ample side spreads of apricot and chocolate are provided for those who care for and extra tasty treat, or simply order the raspberry filled for one of the best little jelly donuts…I mean, beignets around. As we only ordered the cake on this trip, I'm looking forward to ordering a double of raspberry filled to compliment my espresso on the next visit!

Want great service and great Donuts?? Visit Linda's in Belmont!

For those of you who may be losing faith in quality products, and the job skills and customer service service of today's youth, you only need visit a place like Linda's to have it fully restored. As Sara explains...

Linda’s Donuts in Belmont rocks! I had the pleasure of dining at this wonderful little neighborhood spot this past weekend. I came in hungry and left full, happy and delighted! I would almost say I was astounded! The family running this shop could not have been nicer or more accommodating. I can’t remember the last time I saw counter staff being so polite and friendly. I wish I lived closer so I could see their smiling faces every morning! My world would be a better place.

I had French toast. Yummy. I had donuts. Really yummy! These donuts are so light and heavenly...some of the lightest cake donuts we have sampled. I tried a plain cake donut and a glazed donut stick. The cake donut didn’t take forever to chew or feel heavy in my mouth and was perfect for dunking. The glazed donut stick was melt in your mouth delicious! I arrived at the shop later in the morning so I didn’t have an opportunity to try any other flavors. Or so I thought!

I am a lover of lemon donuts. My man is a lover of jelly donuts. The guy behind the counter found this out and made us a lemon donut stick and a jelly donut stick on the spot! Well, all he had to do was fill em, but still, it was a very nice gesture and I couldn’t wait to gobble my lemony goodness up!

The whole feel of the shop made the experience so great. Everyone knew everyone else and although we were “outsiders” we were welcomed with open arms and served with a smile. Even after eating all those delicious carbs, I left feeling chipper and light and ready for a great day!