Online reviews (Yelp & otherwise) of The Italian French Baking Co (North Beach, San Fran) seem to deduct a star for “sketchy service.” I say, Who cares?? I’m only able to vouch for the (apparently award winning) macaroon (amazing!, even 3h later at the airport) (another tale entirely) but when I asked to photograph the back, the staff was more than accommodating (if a little dismissive - I’m not sure I got permission as much as a wave and a shrug, “Meh, dowhatyougottado….”); but eventually going so far as to turn on various machines, point out things of note, etc.  

They didn’t kiss my ass at the cash register? Whatever. A baguette’s a buck fifty. And those macaroons? I’m obsessed.