Where to Go for a Taste of France in New York City
There’s something about French culture that I’ve always loved. There’s a simplicity to it that brings effortless elegance. Hospitality is quiet but thoughtful. The cuisine is understated but meticulous. It’s a unique blend of contradictions that is so intrinsically French. So naturally, when I noticed a plethora of French businesses while exploring New York City, it piqued my curiosity to see exactly how much French culture and influence this enormous city has to offer. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t disappointed.
Did you know that NYC has a “Little Paris”? Neither did I, until recently. Most major cities have a Little Italy and a Chinatown. You’ll find neighborhoods dedicated to Hispanic cultures like Washington Heights in NYC, Eastern European cultures like Ukrainian Village in Chicago, and representation of other Asian countries like Japantown in San Francisco. Washington, D.C. even has a community called Little Ethiopia. But the only place that really has a dedicated French community is New Orleans, predictably so.
To celebrate this concentration of French community and culture, I’ve put together a list of places to visit in NYC if you, like me, consider yourself a Francophile. From books to pastries, it’s the best of what I personally love about French culture. So dive in and prepare yourself for a few delicious indulgences!
Buvette in West Village
Albertine Bookstore | 972 5th Avenue (Upper East Side)
Located in the historic Payne Whitney mansion, Albertine is part of the Cultural Services of the French Embassy. It specifically carries books in French and English and is the only bookshop in New York devoted to that singular goal. The shop has become known across social media for its ceiling mural featuring hand-painted depictions of constellations, stars, and planets, but Albertine is more than just a photo opportunity. It hosts book clubs, author panels, readings, discussions, and other events dedicated to literature. Albertine is a must-visit if you appreciate French culture or literature, but even more so if you appreciate both.
Angelina Paris | 1050 6th Avenue (Bryant Park)
If you’ve been to Paris, you’re likely familiar with Angelina for its famous hot chocolate. Founded in 1903, Angelina is quintessentially Parisian. The restaurant represents the elegance of Paris’s dining scene, from the hospitality to the delicacy of the dishes and how they’re presented. But what has made this French icon famous is the thick, decadent hot chocolate on every Paris bucket list. With the perfect blend of cocoa, the velvety drink is unlike any other you’ll have the pleasure of sipping. It’s a rich treat, perfectly paired with one of their equally delicious pastries. The experience of dining at Angelina in Paris is replicated at the New York restaurant and tea room. Enjoy one of their signature French Toasts, savory egg dishes, pastries, or sandwiches. You can also enjoy a formal tea time with your choice of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, plus a selection of savory bites and mini pastries for a broader taste of their menu. Angelina Paris has a second location that is takeout-and-delivery only on the Upper East Side at 1121 Lexington Avenue.
Buvette | 42 Grove Street (West Village)
Possibly my favorite place in New York City, Buvette is a French bistro from James Beard Award-winning Chef Jody Williams. The restaurant embodies the spirit of a neighborhood European bistro, serving dishes made with seasonal ingredients in an eclectic space that has evolved over the years. Inside, the restaurant is cozy with an aesthetic that feels like walking into someone’s very old French home. You may be familiar with Buvette from its namesake cookbook, Buvette: The Pleasure of Good Food, sharing recipes and stories that combine French and Italian bistro cooking. Some of the best things I ate include the Pain Perdu and Steak Tartare. The Ginger Soda is also delicious and made in-house. They have an impressive wine list too, so if you’re feeling a glass (or bottle) of vino, this is the place for you.
Menu at Buvette
Steak Tartare from Buvette
Dominique Ansel Bakery | 189 Spring Street (SoHo)
Located just off the Spring Street metro stop, Dominique Ansel has received many awards and recognitions, but most know him for the “Cronut” - a cross between a croissant and a doughnut. His creativity when it comes to pastry is truly exceptional. You can taste the passion for the craft in every single bite. Make a mess biting into the signature Kouign Amann. Say “cheers” over a Cookie Shot. Take a bite out of one of the colorful, seasonal treats. And if you’re hoping for something a bit more savory, they also serve a selection of sandwiches and quiche. No matter what you plan to order, be ready to wait in line, but I promise it’s worth it.
Ladurée | 398 West Broadway (SoHo)
The authority on French macarons, Ladurée has a few locations in New York City, but we’re partial to the SoHo shop. Ladurée created the modern-day French macaron. The original location near the Champs-Élysées in Paris has expanded to over one hundred locations worldwide, including the beautiful shop in SoHo, where guests can enjoy tea service on the spectacular garden terrace. The SoHo shop is great for ordering a pastry and drink to-go, but if you’re hoping to dine, reservations are highly recommended. Grab a seat on the terrace, order an expertly crafted cocktail, and settle in for a leisurely meal, Euro-style.
La Maison du Chocolat | Various Locations
Another indulgent destination that started in Paris, La Maison du Chocolat takes the art of artisan chocolate making to a different level. This isn’t just another chocolate shop. The technique and detail put into every creation is worth savoring. The chocolatiers behind the magic have decades of experience, many of them with the company for years, and you can feel their passion in every bite. La Maison du Chocolat has several locations in NYC, so there’s no excuse for you not to stop in for a treat.
Personal Note: My first experiences with both Ladurée and La Maison du Chocolat were at their locations on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. I had my very first macaron (ever) from that Ladurée store, and a specific dark chocolate truffle (that I can’t remember which one) helped me fall in love with red wine. So both of these places are particularly special to me.
Ladurée in SoHo
Le District | 225 Liberty Street (Battery Park City)
A French food hall in Brookfield Place, Le District is made up of “Cafe District” and “Le District Bar & Bistro”. Treat yourself to all your favorite French bites in one perfect glass atrium at Cafe District. From classic French pastries to sweet and savory crepes, burgers, quiche, sandwiches, and beyond, there’s something for everyone. For a restaurant dining experience, Le District Bar & Bistro serves a classic French menu. Enjoy the patio if the weather plays nice, and start with the Hand-Cut Steak Tartare prepared tableside. For something lighter, the Tuna Nicoise Salad is a classic. However, if you prefer something heartier, the Steak Frites are never a bad idea. Enjoy paired with a glass of your favorite French wine or an expertly prepared craft cocktail.
“Little Paris” | Centre Street, between Broome & Grand Streets (Lower Manhattan)
We’re no stranger to the “Little Italies” and “Chinatowns” of most major cities. Neighborhoods dedicated to immigrant cultures are common, but it’s rare to find one dedicated to French culture (except in New Orleans). New York City has a long history of French immigration, and two women have made it their mission to establish a community for French businesses and Francophiles.
Léa and Marianne Perret, founders of Coucou - a French language and cultural center, successfully inaugurated the block of Centre Street from Broome to Grande in 2021. This small slice of the city features many French businesses, including Coucou, Maman, La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels, and Clic, along with Beaux-Arts-style buildings. Léa and Marianne didn’t just choose this location for any reason, though. This particular area served as the New York French Quarter in the mid-19th century, where many French immigrants established homes and businesses. So grab your beret, and head over to “Little Paris” for a mini trip to France on your next visit. (source)
Maman | 239 Centre Street (Little Paris / Little Italy)
While Maman has expanded to multiple cities and neighborhoods, the original Maman flagship location is located in the heart of Little Paris. With rustic French decor and comforting pastries, Maman brings the south of France to NYC. Each location offers a unique experience, but there’s something special about visiting the one that started it all. If it’s a nice day, don’t forget to check out the secret garden.
Pain Perdu at Buvette
Dominique Ansel Bakery in SoHo
