The baguette is a descendant of the bread developed in Vienna in the mid-19th century when steam ovens were first brought into use, helping to make possible the crisp crust and the white crumb pitted with holes that still distinguish the modern baguette. Long loaves had been made for some time but in October 1920 a law prevented bakers from working before 4am, making it impossible to make the traditional, often round loaf in time for customers' breakfasts. The slender baguette solved the problem because it could be prepared and baked much more rapidly.

Baguettes are closely connected to France and especially to Paris, though they are made around the world. In France, not all long loaves are baguettes; for example, a short loaf is a batard, a standard thicker stick is a flute (also known in the United States as a parisienne), and a thinner loaf is a ficelle. (French breads are also made in forms such as a miche, which is a large pan loaf, and a boule, which is a round loaf similar to some peasant breads.)

Baguettes, either relatively short single-serving size or cut from a longer loaf, are very often used for sandwiches (usually of the submarine sandwich type, but also panini); sandwich-sized loaves are sometimes known as demi-baguettes, tiers, or sometimes "Rudi rolls". Baguettes are often sliced and served with pate or cheeses. As part of the traditional continental breakfast in France, slices of baguette are spread with jam and dunked in bowls of coffee or hot chocolate

Madame Figaro voted Best Baguette in Paris for 2009 was Jazques Bazin. He was alos voted by the Bortherhood of Brioche as makeing the best Brioche of 2009. I bought a loaf today and I can attest to how good it is. My 13 years said it was fantastic and that carries even more weight.

A quick note to let you know that we all very much enjoyed the walking gourmet tour on Saturday morning. Muguet was fantastic, as you promised, and very knowledgeable about food and all the places we visited. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this tour and your company to others. So thanks so much and please pass our sincere thanks onto Muguet as well.