The hot and spicy cheese bread at Stella’s Bakery has a rabid following at the Dane County Farmers’ Market on the Square, but the popular vendor is absent when the market moves indoors.

Now, the bakery has a opened a brick-and-mortar store — serving sandwiches as well as bakery items — so fans won’t have to wait until spring to get their fix.

Stella’s started serving breakfast and lunch at its bakery about a month ago. The menu is still small, but staff members said they hope to expand the lunch business once word gets out. Stella’s offers a choice of six sandwiches, served hot or cold, plus a build-your-own option. Though they only come with a pickle, sandwiches are filling and reasonably priced at $5.50.

The Italian turkey topped with Monterey jack cheese, pesto and mayo was a favorite in our group. My lunch companions couldn’t get enough of the freshly sliced turkey, and the panini-style grilled bread gave the sandwich a perfect crunch.

Stella’s also serves a breakfast sandwich with egg and cheese on grilled hot and spicy cheese bread ($3.50). For lunch, don’t forget to ask about a grilled cheese (made with the cheeses of your choice) on that famous bread, also $3.50. Since the bread was cut so thin, it was impossible to taste any spiciness or swirls of cheese. Still, the sandwich was worth trying, especially if paired with one of the daily soups that come with a slice of cheese bread ($3).

It is impossible to leave Stella’s without buying something from the bakery. Everything looks just as good as it is at the Farmers’ Market, and probably better since you don’t have to elbow the person next to you for that last scone. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave without a delectable oatmeal chocolate chip cookie. The seasonal pumpkin muffins with cream cheese frosting are also lick-your-plate good.

The only downside: Stella’s has little seating and looks like more of a takeout business for now. It may be hidden from the lunch rush, but it won’t be out of the spotlight for long.

STELLA'S BAKERY 

Address: 2908 Syene Road

Phone: 608-663-2690

Hours: Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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