In the spring of 1978, businessman Louis Kane was strolling through Boston's historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace when he noticed a display showcasing a new line of French bakery ovens. The aroma and quality of the fresh breads were enchanting. So enchanting in fact, it gave Louis an idea. Why not make wonderful, authentic fresh breads and croissants easily available to everyone in the city? From this chance encounter came the first ever Au Bon Pain.