Delicious aromas permeate this cavernous Hillcrest bakery, where the city's most treasured breads are baked before your eyes all day long. The traditions of European artisan bread-making and attention to the fine points of texture and crust quickly catapulted Bread & Cie. to local stardom--they now supply bread to more than 75 local restaurants. Among my favorites available daily are anise and fig, black olive, jalapeño and cheese--even the relatively plain sourdough batard is tart, chewy perfection. Others are available just 1 or 2 days a week, like the panella dell'uva (grape bread; weekends), or the hunky walnut and scallion (Wed and Sat). Ask for a free sample, or order one of the many Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches. Try tuna niçoise with walnuts and capers; the mozzarella, roasted peppers, and olive tapenade on focaccia; or, roast turkey with hot pepper cheese on rosemary/olive oil bread. Specialty coffee drinks delivered in bowl-like mugs are perfect accompaniment to a light breakfast of fresh scones, muffins, and homemade granola with yogurt. Seating is at bistro-style tables in full view of the busy ovens and tattoo-embraced staff.