Today is the first day of business for the new Le Marais Bakery & Bistro in the former Kara's Cupcakes space at Ghirardelli Square, a petite pop-up that's a preview to the 5,000-square-foot permanent location opening there in the spring.

This 500-square-foot location brings over the wares from Patrick Ascaso and Joanna Pulcini Ascaso's popular restaurant at 2066 Chestnut St. in the Marina. Executive chef Alex Ruíz says you'll find pastries, tarts, eclairs, scones, muffins, cookies, coffee cake, beignets, quiche and sandwiches, all in the classic French style. "I'm a very traditional French pastry chef," he said. "Each ingredient is treated with the most respect."

It's on the main plaza across from the fountain, a perfect place to sit and enjoy a cup of Stumptown coffee with your goodies. The cafe has a handful of tables and chairs outside and inside, where you'll find a collection of Joanna's photographs from Le Marais, the historic district in Paris.

Hours are 8am–8pm Monday–Thursday and 8am–10pm Friday–Sunday.