Let me start by saying - this raisin challah is LEGIT. The moment I opened the package, that sweet yeasty aroma transported me straight to a Brooklyn bakery. The braided loaves arrived surprisingly fresh for shipped bread, with plump raisins peeking through every slice.

Here's what rocked my world: That perfect chewiness! Toasted with butter? Heavenly. Made into French toast? Next-level. The texture holds up beautifully - crisp crust giving way to a cloud-like interior studded with juicy raisins. It stayed fresh in my fridge for nearly two weeks (though it never lasts that long because... y'know... self-control).

Now the elephant in the room - the price tag hurts ($25 for 2 loaves?!). While cheaper locally, I'd argue the convenience of doorstep delivery justifies occasional splurges for holidays. Pro tip: Slice and freeze immediately to make it last.

Watch out for occasional quality hiccups though - one shipment arrived drier than expected, needing microwave revival. But when Stern's gets it right (which is most times), this challah becomes Shabbat magic you can taste.