Lan Ma left her IBM career to open a Paris Baguette cafe in Bethlehem, overcoming challenges to earn top franchise marks in ...

A baguette, which has very little fat, is best eaten the day it is baked or bought. Before storing, cover bread in plastic wrap, and place it in a tightly closed plastic bag.

Among his more interesting findings: Baguettes from Balthazar Bakery and Almondine, the Dumbo dark horse, were the best-looking. Almondine also won for crust and crumb.

Another Frenchman-run operation is out on James Island at the aptly named Baguette Magic. When you walk in the door, you can practically taste the freshly baked bread. Baguette Magic owner Mathieu ...