You might be tempted to brush off Tatte as a coffee chain. But after waiting in one of those epic lines and tasting any one of those fluffy creations, you’ll know what we know: Tatte is what dreams are made of.

Born from the lifelong passion of self-trained, Tel Aviv-native pastry chef Tzurit Or, Tatte launched in 2007 out of Or’s home kitchen. She grew the business quickly: from small farmers market stands in Boston to today’s eight friendly, rustically decorated brick-and-mortar cafes spanning neighborhoods in Boston, Brookline, and Cambridge.

Days at Tatte begin with cases and counters stacked and packed with croissants, brioche, buns, breads, tarts, twists, meringues, muffins, cookies, cakes, and rolls. Shelves are lined with granola, biscotti, and other quick-grab sweet treats, while espresso machines await, ready to whir out one carefully crafted, photogenic cappuccino after another.

By mid-morning (or earlier), pastry selections dwindle and the shelves begin to clear— but the same cannot be said for the lines. No need to worry: The kitchens of these shops churn out plenty of other hot and fresh Tatte-style goodies. Sandwiches served on house-made bread, salads, and other plated specialties (think: shakshuka, tartine, pancakes) can be whipped up and brought to your table—or packed to go.

From open until close you’ll find each Tatte bustling with a hurried, social, open-market energy. Students, tourists, professionals, floaters, moms, and dads—they all gather in the soft, warm, and white communal spaces to share food, drink, and free-flowing conversation. Get there early, take in the scene, and enjoy Tatte’s sweet taste.