First taste: Fendu Boulangerie

The owner

Owner Niel Koep, former executive pastry chef of the Four Seasons Resort on Lanai, decided to open a bakery because he said it's the only thing he knows how to do. "Since I was 18, I've been in baking and pastry," he said. "It's a business, but it's also a passion."

It's always been Koep's dream to have his own place so he can interact with his customers directly. He's a humble, quiet man who shrugs when complimented on his authentic croissants. "I don't know if it is or not, but people love them," he said.

His modesty, however, belies his dedication and attention to details. It's apparent when he's showing off the deck oven — imported from France — with steam tubes that provide an even heat for his breads. He also bakes bread throughout the day, instead of all at once in the morning, so that the bread is always fresh.