Roll out the pastry treats

Picture / Carolyn Robertson

1. Double chocolate

What sets this classy chocolate eclair apart from its poor cousins is the filling.

Instead of the usual whipped cream, it is decadently filled with chocolate mousse and then generously topped with dark and white chocolate. $3.50 at the Stamford Plaza, ph (09) 309 8888.

2. Best of British

An English classic, Eccles cakes can be enjoyed on their own or with a thick piece of quality cheddar. We tracked down a place that bakes the currant, allspice and nutmeg delights daily. $4 at Zarbo, ph (09) 520 2721.

3. Going nutty

Moist and nutty, the great thing about a hazelnut danish is that it's not too sweet. They cost $2 at Eves Pantry, ph (09) 630 0379.

4. Sweet treat

The United Nations of pastries, this Middle Eastern baklava is baked by a Lebanese woman and sold at an Italian grocery store. Best consumed with a double-shot espresso for the contrast between the slightly bitter coffee and sweetness of honey with nuts. $2 at The Italian Grocer, ph (09) 360 2842.

5. French connection

Made of flaky pastry, this traditional croissant is filled with home-made almond cream and covered with almond slices. We have searched Auckland for the nearest New Zealand equivalent. $3.50 at Eiffel en Eden, ph (09) 624 0660. Bon appetit.

6. Fruity mix

Whoever came up with the idea of combining creamy lemon curd with boysenberry in pastry deserves a medal. $2.50 at Pandoro Panetteria, ph (09) 621 0088.