Aren't the two stores in-town more like party stores? I would think they would be very low volume in regards to freshness but you never know a lot of the people living in town probably grab items there out of convenience. Just like your ordinary north American party store.

As for the bakery you speak about......I will second that it is worth the walk. Not just for fresh bread and sweet pastries but their cheese and meat based pastries are also a good source protein