PEET'S PASTRY AND STARBUCKS BUBBLES

They say a picture's worth a thousand words ... and nowhere is that more true than the pastry case at Peet's Coffee & Tea at the corner of 14th and Montana. I made my way there this afternoon, intent on sampling some of the baked goods, and I wasn't disappointed. "It all looks so good," I said to the Barista-on-Duty, "I was thinking of getting the Triple Berry Scone. Would you recommend that?" "Well, it's all good ... our baked goods are fresh, artisan-made and delivered daily," he answered, "The Triple Berry Scone is OK, but if I were you I'd go for the Almond Croissant." "Nonsense," interrupted a Friendly Pastry Samaritan who was standing behind me, "Go for the scone ... I get it all the time and it's fantastic." I took his advice and wasn't disappointed. The Triple Berry Scone is basically like a berry sandwich, a luscious combination of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries wedged between two moist layers of pastry ... just sweet enough to be satisfying. "My compliments to the chef," I said, "I can see why you're so crowded!" The Barista laughed. "It never seems to quiet down around here," he said.

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In related news, it was also a hotbed of activity this morning at 7th and Montana: A Frugal Fannie made the scene and -- when she thought no one was looking -- she quietly pulled copies of The Los Angeles Times out of the sales rack, removed the coupons from them, then slipped them back on display; and An Anonymous Loon blew soap bubbles into the crowd on 7th Street. Too bad he didn't bring the soap into the rest room. Something tells me it could use a little freshening-up ...!