The only thing that will tear office drones away from their desks is the announcement of free food (and a fire alarm). As the food writer, I often bring in sample edibles for Grid staffers to get their opinions for research. Most of it doesn’t make it to print, so why not make it into a weekly online feature?
In the first installment of Office Taste Test, we have these chocolate brownies from Petite Thuet ($7.90 for a package of two). Chef Marc Thuet and business partner/wife Biana Zorich closed their restaurant Conviction at King West and Portland last year to focus on the Petite Thuet baking business, which is mostly known for breads. Here’s what people think of Thuet’s dessert:
Rina Espiritu, Sales and Marketing Coordinator: “It’s crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. The texture is perfect. I like them because they’re not cake-y.”
Carley Fortune, Life section editor: “It needs to be a bit more chocolate flavour and it’s a bit too sweet, but the crackle on top is awesome.”
David Topping, Contributor: “I’d buy this. But I’d also need some vanilla ice cream to go with it. Half of one brownie is enough for me.”
Jamie Harju, Senior Account Manager: “Oh my goodness, I adore these! I love how the top is slightly crispy and they have this soft fudge-like centre. I’m coming back for more.”
Lara Zarum, Production Editor: “I like that it’s crunchy on the outside but I could do with more chocolate.”
Results
Taste: Good, but needs a bit more chocolate.
Texture: The slightly crunchy exterior was favoured by everyone.
Value: Reasonable, considering one package is enough dessert for at least four people.
Minutes it took for it all to be eaten by staff: Less than five.
Verdict: The mini stampede and multiple usage of exclamation points in reaction to these baked treats means the office approves.
