LIVING LIKE A PARISIAN STATESIDE: NYC’S BEST FRENCH SPOTS

About 13 years ago, I embarked on my very first trip to France, and it was love at first sight. The French lifestyle captivated me, and ever since, I’ve been finding ways to incorporate its charm into my everyday life. To me, living like the French is about embracing elegance and simplicity while finding joy in life’s little pleasures. It’s savoring a perfectly flaky croissant with your morning espresso, wandering through a boutique or park at a leisurely pace, and valuing quality over quantity—whether in food, fashion, or friendships.

As a self-proclaimed Francophile, I’m always on the lookout for a taste of France wherever I go. Living in an area with limited French-inspired options, I’ve made it a mission to seek out French restaurants, patisseries, and cafés when I travel. One of my favorite discoveries is a charming area in SoHo dubbed “Little Paris.” With its quaint streets lined with French boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, this enclave offers a taste of Parisian elegance right in the heart of New York City. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in French culture, from sipping on a café au lait to browsing for unique French finds.

For my birthday, I decided to celebrate with a weekend in New York City, immersing myself in all things French. Between catching incredible shows, indulging in delicious food, exploring chic shops, and treating myself to luxurious perfumes and self-care, I made the most of the City’s French-inspired offerings.

If you’re looking to channel your inner Parisian without leaving NYC, check out my curated list of the best French spots below. Don’t forget to explore the map at the bottom for a complete guide to living your best French-inspired life in the city!

ANGELINA PARIS

One of my favorite Parisian establishments, Angelina Paris, has now graced the United States with its presence. Initially there was only one location in Bryant Park, but there are now three locations varying in offerings. This charming eatery is the only one of its kind outside of France, offering a delightful brunch menu and an array of iconic French pastries, including macarons and gâteaus. My personal favorite is the pistachio Mont Blanc, a delightful twist on the traditional chestnut cream version.

Angelina Paris, 1050 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018, angelinaparisusa.com
MAMAN

Maman, named after the French word for “mother,” is a beloved local chain of coffee shops that brings the flavors and charm of the South of France to New York City. Here, you can indulge in more than just a delicious cup of coffee—you’ll find an array of French-inspired delights, from buttery croissants and pillowy brioche to heartier options like tartines and the classic croque madame, featuring Parisian ham, comté cheese, and béchamel on sourdough. But it’s not just the food that enchants; the beautifully designed interiors transport you straight to a café in Provence, with rustic décor and a cozy ambiance that make every visit feel like a mini escape to the French countryside.

Maman, 1424 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028 (multiple locations), mamannyc.com
The Met

A visit to The Metropolitan Museum of Art is like stepping into a treasure trove of history and beauty, and it’s the perfect destination for anyone inspired by French culture. Wandering through its art-filled halls is a dream, offering a mix of serene moments. The museum boasts an impressive collection of French masterpieces, including works by Monet, Degas, and Renoir, which transport you straight to the heart of 19th-century France. Don’t miss the elegant period rooms like The Wrightsman Galleries, which capture the grandeur of French decorative arts from the 18th century, or the iconic “Water Lilies” by Monet. Whether you’re drawn to Impressionist paintings, ornate furniture, or the fine details of French sculpture, The Met’s collection offers a rich collection that feels like a passport straight to Paris.

Photo courtesy of The Met.

Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, metmuseum.org
Home Cooking New York

Home Cooking New York, nestled in the heart of “Little Paris,” offers a unique opportunity to bring a piece of Parisian culinary magic into your own kitchen. Their hands-on cooking classes, led by expert chefs, guide you through the preparation of beloved French dishes, from delicate crêpes to rich coq au vin. These interactive sessions are not only educational but also a delightful way to elevate your cooking skills and embrace the art of French cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll leave with the confidence to recreate these classic dishes and the joy of bringing a taste of France to your own table. There are a couple of great classes coming up in January 2025 including French Bistro Classics and a Romantic French Dinner for Two.

Home Cooking New York, 158 Grand St, New York, NY 10013, homecookingnyc.com
Fishs Eddy, French Wink & French Face-care

A Parisian knows the art of discovering unique treasures. In New York City, two shops stand out for their curated selection of French goods and unique pieces: Fishs Eddy and French Wink. Fishs Eddy offers a whimsical and eclectic mix of vintage-inspired tableware. Take your time as you look at every nook and cranny because you’re certain to find a new gem at every glance. While French Wink boasts a refined collection of home goods, food, accessories, and gifts. I’d personally stock up on Teisseire French Fruit Syrups, a Madeleine baking mold, and an Opinel knife. Then you can pop over to New London Pharmacy and stock up on the best French skincare products like Biafine (which is my go-to for any skin injury like sunburns), La Roche Posay and my favorite Avène. By exploring these boutiques, you can bring a touch of Parisian chic to your own home, wellness routine and wardrobe.

Fishs Eddy, 889 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, fishseddy.com
French Wink, 245 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001, frenchwink.com
New London Pharmacy, 246 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011, newlondonpharmacy.com
Spend the Afternoon in “Little Paris”

Tucked away in SoHo, you’ll find a charming neighborhood affectionately dubbed “Little Paris.” Nestled on Centre Street between Broome and Grand Streets, this quaint block is home to French restaurants, a wine bar, a café, and even an art school and gallery. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the signature blue-and-green arched street signs welcoming you to this pocket of Paris in NYC. First pop into Maman and grab a cup of coffee and then wander the art at Clic and then head to La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels and enjoy a glass of French wine and delicious eats like Beef Tartare, Charcuterie or a French Onion Grilled Cheese.

Little Paris Sign, 253 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013
Clic, 255 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013, clic.com
La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels, 249 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013, compagniedesvinssurnaturels.com
Maman, 239 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013, mamannyc.com
Diptyque and Olfactory

A Parisian experience I cherish is crafting my own perfume at Molinard, France’s oldest perfumery. You can recreate this magical experience in NYC at Olfactory, where you can design your signature scent. While not a French brand, perfume is deeply intertwined with French culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the exquisite fragrances at Diptyque, where you can discover your new favorite scent and even earn a free birthday candle through their rewards program.

Olfactory, 355 Bleeker Street and 281 Mott Street, New York, NY, olfactorynyc.com
Diptyque, (multiple locations), 31 Prince Street, New York, NY 10012, diptyqueparis.com
Enjoy Classic French Dishes and Sweet Treats

New York City is a haven for French cuisine lovers, offering endless options to indulge in French delicacies. From the modern bistro vibes of Frenchette to the refined elegance of Le Coucou, each restaurant promises an unforgettable culinary experience. For a cozy yet sophisticated meal, visit Buvette or La Mercerie, where the ambiance is as charming as the dishes. Don’t miss Aux Merveilleux de Fred for their exquisite meringue creations, or indulge in luxurious pastries at Ladurée and decadent truffles at La Maison du Chocolat. For a splurge-worthy experience, Per Se combines French techniques with modern flair, while the iconic Le Relais de Venise L’Entrecôte delights with its signature endless steak frites. Whether you’re craving a quick croissant or a multi-course feast, NYC’s French dining scene offers something for everyone.

Le Coucou, 138 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013, lecoucou.com
Buvette, 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014, ilovebuvette.com
La Mercerie, 53 Howard St, New York, NY 10013, lamercerieny.com
Au Merveilleux de Fred, (multiple locations), 37 8th Ave, New York, NY 10014, marvelousbyfred.com
Ladurée, (multiple locations), 398 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012, laduree.us
La Maison du Chocolat, (multiple locations), 51 W 49th St, New York, NY 10020, lamaisonduchocolat.com
Per Se, 20 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019, thomaskeller.com
Le Relais de Venise L’Entrecôte, 155 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022, relaisdevenise.com

As you embark on your own French adventure in New York City, remember to savor every moment. Whether you’re indulging in a decadent pastry, sipping on a glass of fine wine, or simply strolling through the city streets, embrace the elegance and joy that the French lifestyle offers.

Merci beaucoup for joining me on this French-inspired journey. I hope this guide inspires you to explore the city’s hidden gems and create your own unforgettable experiences. À bientôt, New York!

All of the locations above (and so much more) are available on this curated map for your use. You can access it here.

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