While most of the food at your favorite restaurant is a product of its own talent and effort, some things can't be whipped up in a kitchen.

Chances are you've already eaten some of the creations of baker Rida Shahin - diners at Blackbird, Hot Chocolate, The Grocery Bistro or several other venues may have started their meal with a bite of his lovingly created breads. La Farine shuns using sugar, oil or margarine in any of their breads, and uses a mammoth French bread oven for extra love.

Luckily for those craving such a treat without wanting to indulge in a full night out, La Farine has its own space where they'll happily sell you a loaf. Slices of focaccia run from $2-$5, and come in flavors like cinnamon raisin or curried potato. If you're looking for more than just bread out of life, La Farine keeps things diverse with a well-stocked case of sweets. Pie-sized tarts in a variety of flavors, scones, pecan bars, or even bite-sized chocolate ganache pieces - all in the $2-$5 range.

There is a small menu of food available as well - sandwiches like the Not Your Mom's Grilled Cheese indeed break the norm, with sharp cheddar, onion, cilantro, tomato and adobo sauce all on grilled ciabatta for $6. And for those looking for a daily dose of caffeine, the shop also has coffee and espresso delights from Intelligentsia.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Dan Morgridge