The best croissants in the state might very well be from Edelweiss Bakery in Prior Lake.

Owned by Mark and Julie Bowles, the cozy spot on the corner bakes up fresh cookies, breads, danishes, donuts, cakes and other gourmet treats. In April, they’ll celebrate five years in a business that is the culmination of years of inspiration.

Mark Bowles lived in Europe for 15 years and worked as a tennis instructor. He met Julie (a native Minnesotan) there and returned stateside with the dream of opening a Euro-style bed and breakfast.

So he learned the baking business and some pretty incredible recipes (chocolate croissants included) and opened up a sweet neighborhood bakery where you can linger over soup and a treat. They’ll never push you out the door – at least not without a to-go bag in hand.

Edelweiss Bakery, 16186 Main Av. SE, Prior Lake, 952-440-2773.