Hey, Raleigh — City Editor Allie here. The 2024 Olympic Games have got me itching for a slice of the Paris without the price of airfare. With the help of some local businesses, you can make the City of Oaks feel like the City of Light for just one day, no Duolingo needed.
For a meal straight from France
Bloomsbury Bistro, 509 W. Whitaker Mill Rd., Ste. 101 | If you’re feeling French, you can’t go wrong with a plate of steak frites in this more casual setting.
Coquette, 4351 The Circle At North Hills St. | If you’re looking for a good brasserie, Coquette is the place. Don’t miss croque madames and messieurs at lunch or coq au vin at dinner.
East End Bistrot, 2020 Progress Ct., Ste. 110 | This high-end spot is complete with plenty of fish, veal, and more exclusive bites. Caviar service? Oui, s’il vous plaît!
Jolie, 620 N. Person St. | Chef Scott Crawford’s venture into French cuisine makes for a bright + inviting space. Pro tip: Make sure you try for a rooftop table.
Dessert et ambiance
La Farm, various locations | Each La Farm boulangerie feels like it belongs in a little French village — don’t forget a rustic loaf and a few white chocolate baguettes.
Lucettegrace, 235 Salisbury St. | In addition to a wide array of patisserie, grab a jambon beurre box lunch.
Looking for macarons specifically? Little Blue Macaron offers charming seasonal options and movie-inspired macrons to try before seeing a flick at the neighboring Alamo Drafthouse. Mon Macron makes lofty macron towers at its numerous 919 locations for special events. In addition to macarons, try a wide variety of pastry at Amitie Macaron.
For more than just French food but French vibes, head to Lafayette Village for a mini European village in Raleigh’s backyard — and pick up some crepes along the way.
Psst... if you can’t win a medal like our Raleigh-hailing Olympians, how about a Trophy... beer?
