Rebelling against a king, now there is an idea we can get behind! As a country that had our own start with a rebellion against a king, we have a soft spot for those who did the same. Tomorrow happens to be the anniversary of the French people storming the Bastille in Paris, an event that marked the beginning of the French Revolution and the birth of the French Republic. Bastille Day, as it has come to be called, is a holiday not only recognized in France but in the U.S. as well so we thought we would incite a little rebellious celebration for the occasion. Here is a list of popular French cafés and restaurants you can visit to honor our French brethren.
Vive la France!
The Original Café Du Monde – New Orleans, LA
The Original Café Du Monde Coffee Stand is found in the popular French Market of New Orleans. You can sit down for a spell at this busy little café to enjoy their signature Coffee Au Lait with chicory complemented quite nicely with beignets, the square, French-style doughnuts covered in powdered sugar. Café Du Mondes is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week but if you can’t make it down to the French Quarter, there’s seven more in the New Orleans Metropolitan area that you can stop by.
Balthazar Restaurant – New York, NY
No matter what time of day, you’ll be able to find some French cuisine at Balthazar’s. The bustling restaurant features traditional bistro fare along with an extensive wine list, a raw seafood bar, and breads and pastries from Balthazar Bakery. Located in SoHo and always packed with appreciative patrons, it’s wise to make a reservation beforehand.
Mon Ami Gabi – Las Vegas, NV
Looking for a little taste of France in Las Vegas? Mon Ami Gabi is the place to go! Located on the strip as part of the Paris Resort & Casino, this classic French-style bistro is a great getaway for your taste buds. They offer the classic French favorites along with new dishes to discover from an ever-evolving menu. A selection of over 80 boutique French wines is also available to complement your meal. The bistro also has al fresco seating available where you can people watch or catch the Bellagio fountains in action.
Café Presse – Seattle, WA
This French bar-café offers a laid-back French experience on South Capitol Hill. Their menu offers Parisian café classics and affordable wines from the French countryside. Whether it’s a simple breakfast of bread and butter or roasted chicken for dinner, Café Presse is the place for a nice French meal. Café Presse is also serious about their soccer so if you’re a fan head over on the weekend and watch some games with like-minded fans!
Parc Brasserie – Philadelphia, PA
Right on Rittenhouse Square, the Parc Brasserie pays tribute to the French café culture and the chic brasseries of Paris. You can stop by for a quick bite or a leisurely meal for breakfast, lunch or dinner any day of the week. The baguettes are made in-house and the menu is filled with classic bistro fare to enjoy in this charming and comfortable space.
