Branches of Baker and Spice are places of pilgrimage for bread lovers. They are the favoured supplier to top restaurants such as the River Cafe, Le Gavroche and Zafferano with everything handmade on the premises using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients. ''Exceptional Breads'' passes on the secrets of their fabulous breads with recipes for full-flavoured rustic breads from wild yeast starters, classic baguettes, ryes, French fougasse and Italian foccacia. Although the results are always impressive and the techniques are innovative, the recipes are beautifully straightforward. All have been tested in a domestic kitchen and in addition to the clear step-by-step techniques, there are beautiful photographs of the finished breads to whet the appetite and inspire the would-be baker.