The bakery known for making some of Houston’s best croissants is coming to the Heights. Magnol French Baking has claimed the former Andy’s Home Cafe space (1115 E 11th St.) for a second location that will join its original bakery on North Post Oak.
Founded in 2019 by French-trained baker Otto Sanchez, Magnol has become one of Houston’s most acclaimed bakeries. Its croissants, baguettes, and pastries can be found in restaurants throughout Houston, including Rosie Cannonball, Ostia, and Le Jardinier. Pastry fans know to line up early on the weekends for sweets such as eclairs, cookies, and tarts.
Currently, Sanchez intends to open his new location in time for the holiday season, but the difficulties of renovating an almost 90-year old building make the outlook somewhat uncertain.
“Once the build out and permitting phases are complete comes the fun part: Operating two bakeries,” Sanchez said in a statement. “It will be grueling, but I am excited about the challenge, and to do it in this city, because Houston is home. For more than 30 years it has treated me well, and this is me trying to reciprocate.”
Prior to opening Magnol, Sanchez began his career at the Alden Hotel's *17 restaurant before leaving in Houston in 2005. He worked in Las Vegas as well as at the Hotel Bardessono in Yountville, California; The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay; and Burj Al Arab in Dubai, where he was the assistant pastry chef. He returned to Houston in 2014 to lead the pastry program at La Table.
Joining Sanchez in the kitchen will be executive pastry chef Nicolas Berrais. Like Sanchez, Berrais brings experience working for superstar French chefs Alain Ducasse and Joel Robuchon. The native Frenchman has more than 30 years of professional experience.
“Otto and I have spoken about this for years,” Berrais added. “He’s a great friend, and he’s doing an incredible job; better than many French bakers I know. Otto and I will work together to bring Magnol to another level.”
Magnol French Baking is now open for business.
Magnol French Baking is coming to the Heights.
