View from Moosilauke Ravine Lodge
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Brick building/ Lou's Storefront, decoratared using green and white stripes

Hello and welcome to the seventh part of my Hanover café exploration series. This time, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the charm of Lou's Bakery, a Dartmouth staple nestled conveniently on Main Street, just a short 3-minute walk from the green.

Lou's Bakery has earned its reputation not only for its delightful menu but also for the famous tradition known as the Lou's Challenge. This time-honored ritual sees Dartmouth students pulling all-nighters and gathering at Lou's diner right as its doors swing open at 6:30 am. It's a testament to endurance, camaraderie, and a touch of Dartmouth's unique spirit.

Two students enjoying their breakfast at Lou's. Breakfast quesadilla and fruit salad pictured.
Fellow orientation leader Josephine and I enjoying an early morning breakfast at Lou's (we were jet lagged and thus woke up super early)

As an early riser, I appreciate the allure of a morning routine over late-night endeavors. While I haven't personally undertaken the Lou's Challenge – preferring a good night's rest – the tradition adds a distinct flavor to the Dartmouth experience. For those interested in firsthand accounts, my fellow blogger, friend, and soon-to-be study abroad companion Andrea Agola shares her adventure completing the Lou's Challenge in a captivating blog post.

Beyond the challenge, Lou's Bakery offers a diverse experience for visitors. It's a perfect spot to switch up breakfast routines with friends, share a meal with family visiting campus, or simply indulge in a sweet treat to-go. The ambiance at Lou's is a delightful blend of American diner style, providing ample seating for patrons. The cheerful servers contribute to the overall welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the enjoyment of the exquisite food offerings.

Lou's seating area, 6 cubicle style green couches on each side of the wall
Lou's interior

Speaking of the menu, I have found their pesto scrambled eggs and fruit salad to be a pleasing breakfast choice, perfectly complemented by a cup of hazelnut coffee for that morning pick-me-up. For those on the go, the blueberry scone and the breakfast cookie are delectable treats that never disappoint.

Lou's pastries (breakfast cookie and a pumpkin cupcake are the focal points)
Lou's pastries

In summary, Lou's Bakery is more than just a venue for the renowned Lou's Challenge. It's a haven for those seeking exceptional food, warm service, and a touch of Dartmouth tradition. Whether you're a student looking for a hearty breakfast, a visitor in search of local flavor, or simply interested in the Lou's Challenge, Lou's Bakery is an essential stop on your Hanover café exploration journey.

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