Frank Dalba and Paul Hess aren’t ones to stray from old school techniques. Owners of Artisan Kaiser, a new bakery and sandwich shop which opened in Patchogue Sept. 1, have mastered the art of hand-tying Kaiser rolls.
It’s a lost art these days. Many bakeries have gravitated towards using Kaiser stamps, which mark dough before rising and create the swirl on the top of the roll, to save time. At Artisan Kaiser, the staff takes a rope of dough, ties it into five pieces and then wraps them underneath one another. The difference is tastable.
“We are making what is old new again,” said Dalba, later adding, “It gives you a very different texture because now you have layers of bread. [With the stamped roll] it is just one piece with a pattern cut into it.”
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And the rolls at Artisan Kaiser have layers of flavor. Coming in four different styles (classic, everything, onion poppy and cinnamon swirl), patrons may have trouble choosing. The same goes for the sandwiches. One of the heavy hitters is the Artisan made with pork loin, mozzarella, roasted red pepper, bacon and a choice of mayo. Another early favorite, the Kaiser steak melt is loaded with roast beef, caramelized onions and cheddar cheese.
Artisan Kaiser carries a daily assortment of fresh bakery items like muffins (blueberry, strawberry and zucchini), cookies (chocolate chip and double chocolate chip) and croissants too.
The menu also has breakfast sandwiches, soups, salads and coffee from neighborhood friend Roast. Customers can sip hazelnut, cinnamon and vanilla blends that are perfect for when the weather cools.
Whether popping in for a quick, casual meal or a longer sit down, Artisan Kaiser can accommodate. The modern, industrial place has wooden tables with Mason jars filled with flowers for bigger parties and a long high table facing the window for those coming solo.
“Artisan Kaiser was definitely something that was needed in Patchogue. An option that serves fresh, quality food while still being a fast dining option. There are some great restaurants in town, but very little grab and go.”
Artisan Kaiser is located at 16 Havens Ave.