Pistachio Bliss.

Mid-afternoon in Atlanta. I'm feeling virtuous about the hour-long walk at lunchtime, but I need a pickup. Nothing in my pantry or my fridge will do.

Then I remember my pal Erin mentioning Alon Bakery's pistachio croissant.

I head to the Highland location. I'm not an early bird, but the pastry Gods have decreed that I shall have my croissant.

Cut to me, in the parking lot: biting into airy layers dusted with rock sugar, enfolding a deep green paste of crushed nuts.

Not too sweet, but decadent.

Perfection for $1.99.