Bonjour and welcome to France, the first stop on our summer world tour!
A desired stop is a little café that is currently franchising across the U.S. and luckily; we have one just a few miles away.
Le Pain Quotidien at the Calabasas Commons (also located in Studio City, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood) is a quaint café known for its specialty, quality homemade bread. This was inspired by the owner of the first franchise, Alain Coumont, who strived to bring a slice of his roots and childhood to the United States by baking hearty bread. The intoxicating smell draws hungry customers through the doors to try one of the dozens of bread selections and delectable pastries. The self-seating arrangement allows strangers to come together over the most prominent cultural phenomena, food! The rustic wooden tables and chairs and French accents will make you believe you are truly sitting at a French bistro off the coast of Sicily. Just as you begin to relax and enjoy your freshly brewed French roast, an assorted bread basket will be brought to your table along with an array of fresh jams and chocolate spreads that are simply mouth watering. Breakfast or lunch, this is the place to go to take a bite out of France. On your way out, don’t forget to stop at the bakery to pick up a Hazelnut Flûte, Seasonal Cannelé, Brioche, or a Croissant for later! The smooth and creamy pastries will leave you in a complete state of amour and you will be dreaming of France for days to come.
For those of you who have a true sweet tooth, Crème de la Crepe is the perfect place for you to satisfy your chocolate desires while experiencing authentic French cuisine. Nestled in a cozy ally in Old Pasadena, this café is easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. However, when you do find the spot, you will be welcomed by an amiable host and seated in either the candle-lit indoor room or in the umbrella shaded outdoor patio. As you gaze through the dozens of delicious crepe options on the menu- from sweet to savory- French music will surround you. It will transport you to an outdoor veranda by the shores of the Bay of Biscay where live musicians assemble for the crowds’ enjoyment. Sip on Chardonnay or Pinot Gris and consume ravioli, pasta, and of course, crepes but, make sure to leave room for dessert, the very best part. From fondue au chocolat to the dozens of dessert crepes like suzette, savouruese, and bisous, every member of your party will find the ideal crepe to melt the night away in.
Bon Appetit!
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After you enjoy a filling meal in France, it is time for some authentic entertainment.
What better way to soak up French culture than through a French flea market. This market at the Tarzana Community and Cultural Center only comes three times a year, May, July, and November so you are just in time for the second. The beautiful garden venue equipped with cascading fountains and gazebos will transport you to a French Villa, secluded from the hustle and bustle of city life. A gourmet crepe food truck and a flower truck are present at the event, finishing off the French touch. At this market, you can find any item or trinket you desire, allowing you to pick out a perfect souvenir from your visit to France. From antiques and furniture to jewelry and clothing à la mode (in the style), there is something for everyone. While you are browsing, you will feel as though you are wandering the streets of Paris. Say Bon voyage to your everyday life and oui oui to embracing the air of France.
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If you are truly a dedicated Frenchman or woman and are just dying to see the Eiffel Tower, don’t worry because there is one much closer than the original 4,777 miles away. Just a few hours of driving and you can reach Paris Paris, a Las Vegas resort, which depicts a replica of the original. You can climb to the very top and enjoy a breathtaking view. Don’t forget to take a photo because this will be a moment worth saving for your summer 2012 scrapbook!
Au revoir!
