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Category: Travel Guides

  • Finding a Taste of Home: A Colombian Guide to Atlanta

    I moved to Atlanta when I was 17 years old, and for years I thought I would never find places that reminded me of home. I missed the flavors, traditions, and the feeling of being surrounded by people who shared the same culture and memories.

    So, I decided to start exploring. I wanted to find the places that brought a little piece of
    Colombia to Atlanta…

    While Colombia will always be the country where I was born, Atlanta is the place I now get to call home… Over the years I’ve come to appreciate how diverse and welcoming the city is. People from all over the world have built communities here, creating a place where different cultures, traditions, and foods are celebrated every day. Atlanta allows me to stay connected to my Colombian roots. From Colombian restaurants and bakeries to coffee shops, grocery stores, and cultural events, there are so many places where I can find a little piece of home. Whether I’m enjoying an arepa, listening to vallenato or salsa, or sharing Colombian traditions with friends, Atlanta makes it easy to celebrate the culture that shaped me.

    This guide is a collection of some of my favorite Colombian places in Atlanta: spaces where you can experience our flavors, meet our people, and discover the warmth that makes Colombia feel like home.

    La Ruana Colombian Restaurant

    4015 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Peachtree Corners, GA 30071

    The moment you walk into La Ruana, you feel it… the Colombian music playing in the background, the conversations happening around you, and the warmth that comes from being surrounded by people that are ready to serve you with a smile on their face. Many of the people working there are Colombian, which adds that extra feeling of familiarity and makes you feel like you’re visiting a place back home.

    One of my recommendations is to go for brunch… and here’s why: arepas are my favorite breakfast food (and honestly, one of my favorite foods overall). They have an amazing variety of breakfast options, and the best part is that almost all of them come with a delicious arepa topped with butter and cheese. There’s something so comforting about starting your day with a warm arepa… the kind of food that instantly reminds you of home.

    And don’t leave without trying their hot chocolate! In Colombia, hot chocolate is more than just a drink… It’s part of our traditions. A warm cup paired with an arepa and cheese is such a classic combination that brings back memories of Colombian mornings and family breakfasts.

    Calentao, a typical breakfast in Colombia. We do tend to have a heavy breakfast! Rice and beans, steak, eggs, arepa with cheese. It is deeply nostalgic and represents home-cooked simplicity, and sets a reminder of family tradition and the beauty of Colombian hospitality.

    Steak and arepa with cheese. The arepa is a foundational symbol of Colombian cuisine and national heritage, often enjoyed alongside grilled meats like here—a sirloin.

    Caldo con costilla has rib, potato and cilantro. It’s delicious and we eat it for breakfast. Eaten as a breakfast staple, it is heavily tied to Colombian hospitality and morning family gatherings.

    Tostones topped with steak, cheese and avocado. This Colombian staple dish can easily transition from a quick street food and party appetizer to a full meal for lunch or dinner.

    Vamos Pal’ Cafetal

    1575 Crater Lake Dr Suite 550, Kennesaw, GA 30152

    If you’re craving a true Colombian classic, you have to try the bandeja paisa here…it’s epic and definitely one of my favorite things on the menu. One thing I really love about Vamos Pal’ Cafetal is that it’s more than just a restaurant. On certain nights, they have live music, dancing, and singing, making it feel like you’re at a celebration back in Colombia. If you’re stopping by during the week, I also recommend checking out their lunch specials. They’re affordable, filling, and a great way to enjoy a homemade Colombian meal without spending too much. Or for a weekend option they also offer special soups like Ajiaco and Sancocho Great food, great music, and a fun atmosphere…it’s one of those places that makes Atlanta feel a little more like Colombia.

    This is a delicious mojarra super typical in the coast of Colombia (Santa Marta, Cartagena, etc.) with rice and patacón.

    Weekly special for only $10.99 you get this plate + drink and soup! Only during lunch hours in the weekends.

    Bandeja paisa! Super typical in Medellín, Colombia and sancocho! Sorry this was taken in the back at the kitchen hahaha I can probably stop by tomorrow and get a better picture (my dad works there)

    Bolivar Coffee

    4480 S Cobb Dr SE Ste W, Smyrna, GA 30080

    If you’re looking for a cozy coffee shop with a Colombian twist, Bolivar Coffee is one of my favorite spots in Atlanta. It’s the perfect place to slow down, catch up with a friend, or enjoy a quiet morning with a great cup of coffee. They also have delicious arepas, making it a great stop for breakfast or a quick snack. And if you’re a coffee lover like me, don’t skip their arequipe-flavored coffee because it’s my absolute favorite! It has the perfect hint of sweetness and tastes like a little piece of Colombia in a cup. Whether you’re Colombian or just curious to experience our coffee culture, Bolivar Coffee is definitely a place I’d recommend adding to your Atlanta list.

    At Bolivar Coffee, we got two types of arepas! Sweet corn and yuca. We have a lot of variety of arepas depending of where you go in Colombia! Every department has their typical arepa.

    Pony Malta is found there which is like a soda typical in Colombia.

    The last sign explains the houses and why they’re important in Colombia and how representative the decoration is.

  • Turkiye Local Guide

    We like to refer to ourselves as married foodies, but most people just call us Tara and Argenis. We met 10 years ago, over food – since we both worked at the same restaurant. As foodies, we are always searching for food from different cultures to share and experience together. We both grew up with immigrant families, exposure to different cultures means so much to us. One of the first places my (Tara) family took Argenis was a Turkish restaurant named Toros. Turkish food was always a staple in my family since it was one of my mother’s favorite foods.

    Growing up in New Jersey, I was no stranger to diversity. My hometown of Clifton is a hub for different cultures. You can find foods from around the world on nearly every block. It always felt like a small melting pot. One of my best friends growing up was Turkish. This is what truly introduced me to the Turkish community. As I got older more businesses would open exposing me to the close knit community being built. From as far back as I could remember my mom loved Turkish cuisine and would always take me to her favorite restaurant (Toros) at least once a week. It’s where my fondness for their Sheppard’s salad blossomed. That tradition has continued with me even today. Since Argenis and I have gotten together we are always on the lookout for the next best Turkish restaurant to continue enjoying the culture.

    Anatolia Market Halal Meat And Grocery

    29 NJ-23, Wayne, NJ 07470, United States

    When you walk Into Anatolia Market you are greeted with their stocked shelves full of Turkish goods and products. You won’t know where to begin. From their halal meat section to their hot prepared food from the deli they have something for everyone. The bakery is also filled with delicious breads and treats all freshly made in house daily. They also have a seating area where you can enjoy the yummy treats you just bought. Stepping inside Anatolia market feels like you stepped out of your car and into the heart of a true marketplace in Turkey. A must stop for anyone looking to explore Turkish culture.

    We purchased a few things but one of our personal faves, especially with summer officially here, is Uludağ Gazoz is one of Turkey’s most beloved soft drinks, with a history stretching back to 1930. Named after the famous Uludağ mountain in Bursa, this iconic soda has been a staple of Turkish summers, beach trips, and childhood memories for generations. What sets it apart from your typical fizzy drink is its lighter, more refined sweetness. We also purchased, Gaziantep pistachios which are basically the gold standard of pistachios — Turkey is famous for them, and Gaziantep is the city that produces the best quality ones in the country.

    Ant Bookstore and Cafe

    ANT Bookstore and Cafe, 345 Clifton Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, United States

    Ant Bookstore and Cafe is a great place to come, relax, and enjoy a nice Turkish tea and dessert. This bookstore, in the heart of Clifton, caters to the Turkish community with various traditional and new age books, learning material and Turkish art. They have plenty of outdoor and indoor seating. They offer a variety of pastries, breakfast goods and sandwiches for a light snack/lunch.There is free parking next to the bookstore/cafe as well as an NJ Transit bus stop right down the block.

    Ending your meal with Turkish coffee, tea, and rice pudding isn’t just dessert — it’s the full cultural experience. Turkish coffee is rich, thick, and intensely aromatic, served in a small cup with a piece of Turkish delight on the side, meant to be sipped slowly and savored. The tea, served here in a plastic cup(we look it to go), but usually poured in its signature tulip-shaped glass. And that rice pudding — known as sütlaç — is creamy, silky, and delicately sweet, with those signature golden-brown caramelized spots on top that give it a subtle depth of flavor.

    Toros Restaurant

    Toros, 489 Hazel St, Clifton, NJ 07011, United States

    One step inside of Toros and you are automatically greeted by decor from the Turkish Ottoman Empire. They serve traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, such as Iskender Kebabs,Izgara Kodte, and my personal favorite- the Coban Salata (Shepards Salad). They also have a great lunch special! Along with seating in the main dining area, they also have a downstairs room with a tv to watch the game that can accommodate a larger party of people. This is my favorite Turkish restaurant!There is an onsite parking lot as well as an NJ transit bus that has a stop down the street.

    This is Turkish dining at its finest. The İskender Kebap is an absolute classic — thinly sliced döner meat layered over torn flatbread, drenched in a rich tomato sauce and hot butter, served alongside a cool dollop of yogurt and flame-charred peppers and tomatoes. It’s the kind of dish that’s hearty and bold but somehow perfectly balanced, with the yogurt cutting through the richness in exactly the right way. On the side, the çoban salatası is everything a salad should be — bright, fresh, and simple, with finely chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and herbs tossed in lemon and olive oil, finished with a handful of cured black olives. It’s the perfect counterpart to the warmth of the kebap, refreshing your palate between bites. Together, these two dishes tell you everything you need to know about Turkish cuisine — generous, flavorful, and made with an honesty that doesn’t need to be dressed up.

  • India On Every Block

    New York City is one of the most multicultural places on earth, with Indians making up about 3% of its population. Our local Indian insider, Ruchi, took us on a tour of her favorite Indian hotspots in NYC where you can find an urban slice of India, from authentic cuisine to traditional yoga. Let’s go!

    Hi there! My name is Ruchi Mehta. I’ve been living in New York City for the past 10 years across different areas of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Since moving here, I’ve loved visiting different Indian restaurants around the city to try to get a taste of home! I’m also an avid practitioner of yoga, another Indian tradition I’m proud to carry on.

    India House

    586 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, United States

    India House is an awesome place to sample diverse Indian cuisine in Brooklyn at an affordable price.

    I ordered plated-up reshmi kabob, lamb shanks, samosa, and vegetable pakoras—so delicious! The lamb shanks and samosas were my favorites.

    Madras Dosa Co.

    1450 Broadway, New York, New York 10018

    Madras Dosa Co. in Chelsea offers a unique take on a South Indian classic. They had so many of my favorites here—Magic Masala Lays are the best! Be sure to take advantage of free chai during breakfast!

    I opted for a traditional masala dosa, but Madras boasts some of the most unique dosas I’ve ever seen, including a chopped cheese dosa for the real New Yorkers. And of course, I had to grab my absolute favorite Indian soda, Thums Up. I’m a sucker for anywhere I can go to watch Bollywood music videos while I eat, especially with this diversity of chip flavors!

    lyengar Yoga Institute of New York

    150 W 22nd St 2nd Fl, New York, NY 10011, United States

    Iyengar Yoga was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, a yoga pioneer who also wrote the seminal text “Light On Yoga”. The Iyengar Yoga Institute in Chelsea is a great place to visit for anyone interested in the ancient Indian practice of yoga.

    The Institute also offers free classes for queer and BIPOC students on Fridays and Saturdays, which I attended this week. The class focuses on alignment and accessibility—be prepared for detailed instruction on body mechanics in a few selected postures.

  • Thailand: Local Guide Blog Content

    Thailand may feel far away, but it’s all around us if you know where to look! Our Thai expert, Earn, took us on a tour of her favorite local Thai spots in Rhode Island. See if you can find similar spots in your hometown!

    Hi, I’m Earn! I’m a Thai content creator based in Rhode Island, USA. I’m originally from
    Bangkok, a vibrant city full of rich culture. I love both Thai and American culture, and I
    create content that brings the two together in a fun and relatable way. I also love Thai
    food and snacks. They’re so $avorful and honestly the best!

    Jarit ThaiThai

    371 Richmond St, Providence, RI 02903

    Phone : (401) 445-4596

    This Thai restaurant has authentic Thai food. Everything is very tasty and full of flavor. It’s a great place to go if you want to try Thai food that tastes like the ones in Thailand.
    The restaurant is cool and modern, with Thai decorations like a street food cart and Thai movie posters. The staff are really nice and friendly. Everything about this place makes me feel like home!

    This Thai restaurant has authentic Thai food. Everything is very tasty and full of flavor. It’s a great place to go if you want to try Thai food that tastes like the ones in Thailand.
    The restaurant is cool and modern, with Thai decorations like a street food cart and Thai movie posters. The staff are really nice and friendly. Everything about this place makes me feel like home!

    Wat Nawamintararachutis

    Wat Nawamintararachutis, 382 S St E, Raynham, MA 02767

    Religion plays a big part in Thai culture and beliefs. This Buddhist temple is a great place to explore more about Thai culture and religion. There is a beautiful Buddha statue inside.
    Thai people often go to temples to pray and make merit. They also offer meditation classes with Thai monks. It’s a great way to learn more about peace, mindfulness, and concentration.

    I’ve got a Buddhist amulet. It is a small, sacred, often hand-pressed images of the Buddha, monks, or deities, believed to protect the wearer, promote good fortune, and foster mindfulness.

    Thai Sunday Market

    Wat Nawamintararachutis, 382 S St E, Raynham, MA 02767

    This market offers the closest experience to a Thai street food market in my area! There are so many food stalls and lots of Thai street food options like Pad Thai, boat noodles, grilled pork skewers, and many more. The prices are affordable as well.
    I love how vibrant this market is. It’s always full of Thai people there! The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes me feel just like home.

    The prices are affordable as well.
    I love how vibrant this market is. It’s always full of Thai people there! The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes me feel just like home.

    I got larb moo (spicy pork salad) and Thai chicken rice. These are ones of my favorite Thai dishes. The sour and spicy flavors make the salad feel very refreshing, and it’s perfect to eat with chicken rice!

  • Local Guide: Japanese Culture & Ingredients

    You can find Japanese culture in pretty much any city here in the U.S., from your favorite sushi restaurant to the manga section of your local bookstore. Our local expert, Minami, gave us a tour of her favorite Japanese spots in her neighborhood in North Carolina. Use this guide to find similar spots in your hometown!

    Photo of Minami

    Hi, my name is Minami Enokida, and I’m from Nagano Prefecture in Japan, the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics. Surrounded by clean air, pure water, and beautiful mountains, I grew up appreciating the simple beauty of nature. Nagano is known for its local dishes, fresh vegetables, and traditional foods like soba, all shaped by its rich natural environment. Food connects me to my hometown, its seasons, and its calm, uniquely Japanese way of life. Even though I now live in North Carolina, I can find pieces of home everywhere. Let me show you a few of my favorite places!

    Toyo Shokuhin & Gifts

    748 E. Chatham St., Ste L, Cary, NC 27511

    In a Japanese grocery store, people can see, touch, and taste everyday ingredients that are part of daily life in Japan. It allows them to understand Japanese culture not through history books, but through real food, flavors, and products used at home. When you walk inside Toyo Shokuhin, it feels like you’ve stepped into Japan. The owner is very kind, and you can even enjoy conversations in Japanese and talk about Japanese culture. I bought matcha-flavored sweets, gummies and miso soup bowl. Matcha is one of the most iconic flavors of Japan, and I personally love the taste. I drink miso soup regularly, but I had never been able to find the perfect bowl. When I found one at this store, I knew it was the right place to finally buy it.

    Photo of Toyo Shokuhin
    SORA Japanese restaurant

    1035 Bethania-Rural Hall Rd, Rural Hall, NC 27045

    Food is one of the most accessible ways to experience a culture, which is why I recommend this Japanese restaurant. It offers a wide variety of well-known Japanese dishes such as sushi, ramen, and gyoza, allowing you to try many different flavors in one place. SORA was the first restaurant where I ate Japanese food after coming to the United States a year ago. The experience truly moved me, and it became a very special and memorable place for me. This time, I got sushi, takoyaki, tempra, and ramen. The ramen here is incredible. I also ordered nigiri sushi because its simple style really highlights the freshness of the fish, and the rice is made with Japanese rice, which makes it feel truly authentic.

    Photo of food at SORA
    Photo of SORA

    Ebisu Life Store

    3012 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607

    When you’re cooking Polish food in the U.S., you often have to piece ingredients together from international markets. Saraga, a broad international grocery store, carries items that are essential for traditional Polish dishes and hard to find elsewhere. I got Polish pickles, lazanki noodles, and horseradish on my latest trip. Horseradish can be difficult to find fresh around here, but it’s an important ingredient in many Polish recipes and adds so much flavor. Polish pickles are a staple in Polish cuisine (and my house). They’re different from American pickles in both flavor and texture, and I always like to have them on hand. Lazanki is one of my favorite comfort meals, but most American grocery stores don’t carry that pasta shape, and I don’t always want to make it from scratch.

    Photo inside Ebisu Life Store
    Photo of items inside Ebisu Life Store

    Sarah P. Duke Gardens

    420 Anderson St, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708

    You can go to this beautiful, serene Japanese garden is to experience the peace and serenity of nature in Japan. You can see famous traditional Japanese features like a red bridge and a bamboo grove. The garden also has beautiful benches and grassy areas, making it a perfect spot to bring sandwiches or onigiri and have a picnic, or just enjoy a moment of peace and quiet.

    Photo of Sarah P. Duke Gardens

  • Local Guide: Polish Culture & Ingredients

    Due to lots of emigration from Poland to other countries around the world, a little bit of Polish culture can be found almost everywhere—including here in the States! Come along with our local Polish expert Kimmie as she takes us on a tour of her favorite local Polish spots in her Indiana hometown.

    Photo of Kimmie

    Hi, I’m Kimmie, a food creator and mom based in Indiana. Food is one of the ways I stay connected to family and history, and learning more about Polish cooking has become part of that for me as an adult. I own a salon, love a good book, and spend a lot of time in the kitchen cooking and doing crafts with my kids. Let’s visit a few of my favorite Polish spots right here in Indiana!

    Out of the Blue Polish Pottery

    719 Hanover Place #144, Carmel, IN 46032
    Phone: (317) 853-6349

    Out of the Blue Polish Pottery in Carmel is a great place to experience a different side of Polish culture through folk art. Polish pottery is a traditional craft in Poland, similar to American folk quilts or handmade ceramics, and it’s both functional and beautiful. It’s an approachable way to connect with heritage, especially if food feels intimidating at first. And honestly, it’s just really pretty and a great way to bring whimsy into my everyday routine

    Photo of Out of the Blue Polish Pottery
    Gosia’s Rustic Kitchen

    611 3rd Ave SW, Carmel, IN 46032

    Gosia’s Kitchen is a farmers market booth serving fresh pierogi and other deli style Polish foods. There isn’t a strong Slavic presence where I live, so when you find something like this, you support it. It’s also a great entry point for people who may not be familiar with Polish food because everything feels comforting, approachable, and welcoming. I got pierogi, herring salad, and beet salad. Pierogi is classic and always good, and the herring salad reminds me of family holiday celebrations—it’s something I’ll always choose when I find it available.

    Photo of food at Gosia's Kitchen
    Photo of Gosia's Kitchen workers

    Saraga International Grocer

    8448 Center Run Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46250
    Phone: (317) 883-9999

    When you’re cooking Polish food in the U.S., you often have to piece ingredients together from international markets. Saraga, a broad international grocery store, carries items that are essential for traditional Polish dishes and hard to find elsewhere. I got Polish pickles, lazanki noodles, and horseradish on my latest trip. Horseradish can be difficult to find fresh around here, but it’s an important ingredient in many Polish recipes and adds so much flavor. Polish pickles are a staple in Polish cuisine (and my house). They’re different from American pickles in both flavor and texture, and I always like to have them on hand. Lazanki is one of my favorite comfort meals, but most American grocery stores don’t carry that pasta shape, and I don’t always want to make it from scratch.

    Photo of items at Saraga International Grocer
    Photo of products at Saraga International Grocer

  • An Expert Guide To Brazilian Hotspots

    An Expert Guide To Brazilian Hotspots

    Brazilian cuisine is fresh and flavorful, letting the natural flavors of native ingredients shine. It’s also all around us! Our Brazilian guide, Marina, took us on a tour of her favorite Brazilian spots in Los Angeles where you can chow down on Brazil’s best.

    Photo of Marina

    Hi! My name is Marina, and I am a proud first-generation Brazilian American. I grew up in a vibrant Brazilian community and experienced Brazilian culture through restaurants, stores, and events. I’m passionate about upholding my family’s traditions and sharing the richness of Brazilian culture. Recently, I made the move to Los Angeles, where I am excited to explore and discover the Brazilian culture on the West Coast.

    Brasil Kiss

    There’s nothing like an açai bowl from Brasil Kiss Coffee Bar on a hot day. Açaí berries, straight from the Amazon, are served up in tasty bowls with granola and fruit—perfect for cooling off in Brazil (and Los Angeles) heat. Guaraná, packed with natural caffeine, jazzes up Brazil’s favorite sodas and gives everyone a cheerful energy boost. Both are cherished favorites for Brazilians! Brasil Kiss Coffee Bar 6350 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038

    Photo of Brazil Kiss
    Maya’s

    Maya’s is a great place to stock up on Brazilian snacks! Brazilian snacks are much more than simple treats—they add flavor, joy, and tradition to daily routines. From the satisfying crunch of biscoito de polvilho to the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee, these favorites bring warmth, smiles, and a sense of togetherness wherever they’re shared. Across Brazil, enjoying a table full of snacks is a delicious reminder of the country’s spirit of happiness, hospitality, and connection. A nostalgic favorite snack of mine is Monica’s Gang. Every Brazilian child will agree: Monica’s Gang (Turma da Mônica) is an essential part of growing up in Brazil! And what’s the secret ingredient to making those colorful comic adventures even sweeter? A bombom, of course! Picture this—curled up with a comic book in one hand and a delicious Brazilian chocolate truffle in the other. And of course, Maya’s famous brigadeiros. Brigadeiros are more than just sweet treats in Brazil—they’re the life of every party! Whether it’s a birthday bash or a family gathering, these chocolatey delights bring smiles and spark joy. In Brazilian culture, no celebration is truly complete without a plate (or two) of brigadeiros, making them a delicious symbol of happiness and togetherness.

    Photo of Maya's

    Maya’s Brigadeiro Brazilian Sweets: 13807 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

    W Brazilian Steak House

    On to the main course! Brazilian steakhouses, known as churrascarias, are more than just restaurants—they’re vibrant gatherings that showcase Brazil’s love for flavorful food, lively atmosphere, and communal dining. At a traditional churrascaria, servers called gaúchos parade around tables with skewers of sizzling meats, slicing portions directly onto your plate until you signal you’ve had your fill. This unique style of service, called rodízio, is a never-ending feast that perfectly mirrors Brazil’s love forfood, socializing, and having a good time.The tradition began in the southern region of Brazil, where cowboys (also known as “gauchos”) would gather for big barbecues, sharing stories and savory meats over an open fire. Today, eating at a churrascaria is not just about satisfying hunger—it’s about celebrating togetherness, hospitality, and the joy of sharing. So,when you step into a Brazilian steakhouse, you’re not just enjoying a meal—you’re experiencing a flavorful slice of Brazil’s rich culture.

    Photo of W Brazilian Steak House
    Photo inside W Brazilian Steak House

    W Brazilian Steak House: 3444 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010

  • A Local’s Guide To French Dining

    French cuisine is world-renowned, but finding the REAL “real deal” here in the States requires keen taste buds! Fortunately our French expert, Hind, took us on a tour of her favorite authentic French spots in Sacramento. If you’re in the area, check them out—if not, take notes on what to order the next time you’re craving a French feast!

    As a French-American content creator, Hind brings her roots into everything she creates. A former professional tennis player turned visual storyteller, she’s passionate about capturing the intersection of culture, food, sports, health, and travel. French food is her favorite for good reason, and she brings that love into her work—blending culture, flavor, and a commitment to healthy living. For her, good food isn’t just delicious; it’s the foundation of a balanced lifestyle.

    Hind’s Favorite Dishes

    Croissant: “Buttery, flaky, and golden all the way through. This French classic is built from delicate layers that melt the moment they hit your tongue. Light, airy, and perfectly crisp, it’s the kind of pastry that proves simple ingredients can feel unforgettable.”

    Pain au chocolat: “This flaky-on-the-outside , irresistibly-soft-on-the-inside classic French pastry hides a rich ribbon of chocolate inside its warm layers. It’s the perfect balance of melt-in-your-mouth pastry and smooth, indulgent sweetness.”

    Faria

    This small cottage bakery started out of the head baker’s home, where his passion for bread and expert craftsmanship led him to open a storefront. Faria offers many different types of breads, small dishes, and of course—pastries! You can even stop in for a cooking class if you’re in the neighborhood!

    Café Á Côté

    This cozy French bistro has the friendly, charming atmosphere of your local pub combined with sophisticated, indulgent dishes that will whisk your tastebuds away to Paris’s 8th Arrondissement.

    Soup a l’Oignon

    This cozy classic starts with slow-caramelized onions simmered in a rich broth, topped with a toasted slice of bread and melted cheese. It’s warm, savory, and the definition of French winter comfort in a bowl

    Steak Frites

    A French bistro staple: perfectly seared steak served with golden, crispy fries. The magic is in the simplicity—tender meat, salted frites, and often a buttery sauce that ties everything together. It’s comfort food the French way.

    Estelle Bakery

    This warm, welcoming French bakery and pâtisserie offers a classic French breakfast and lunch menu, breads, pastries, and even an afternoon tea service if you’re feeling fancy!

    Macarons

    Delicate, colorful, and famously French, these almond-based cookies pack a crisp shell with a cloud-soft center. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that feels like strolling through a Parisian pâtisserie on a sunny afternoon