5 TIMES PARIS IN NEW YORK

A few days ago, I walked in without an invitation, but with total unconscious bluff to the VIP sample sale of the month. And there, besides three va va voom Oscar de la Renta gala dresses, I also made a American friend We met in the dressing room and exchanged not only our fashion opinions but also our life stories in no time. She was, just like me, recently engaged. Lived, just like me, for about a year and a half in New York. And so the chatter went from house-tree-animal to why everything that is hip in New York is almost always French . Don't ask me how, but that's how it went.

We both agreed on New York's slight obsession with Paris. What is good is French. And what is French is good. But this New York theory is certainly being misused. There are quite a number of fake French shops that resemble Disneyland more than Paris. But despite that, there are also many French gems among them. Like these 5 for example. Super French, super good, and super cool.

Le Baratin

In New York, they call places ‘true gems’, and Le Baratin is certainly one of them. Everything is French. From wobbly tables to the gentleman behind the bar. The food is delicious, especially the steak tartare is a must-try. And the atmosphere is great. Everything fits together in a French way, and on a quiet evening, as a non-French person, you almost feel a bit like an outsider. But in a case like this, that's not a problem at all.

La Bonne Soup

Founded in 1973 and still owned by the same owner. And that's quite special in New York. Also famously known is the onion soup. So if you don't have a first date but an exceptional craving for this ultimate French dish, go to La Bonne Soup.

Balthazar Bakery

Everyone knows Balthazar the restaurant. Right? It's been a staple for years. Perhaps less known but just as worthy as its big brother is the bakery sister around the corner. Balthazar Bakery; a recommendation for a croissant, a coffee, and that one sneaky little cake for your sweet tooth.

Buvette

In West Village, there's Buvette, and it's just like diving into a small bar in Saint Germain. The portions are très petites, served on French porcelain and are especially very cute. They also have a mini terrace. You usually have to wait a bit for this, but it's worth it. Oh, and you shouldn't skip the carrot with pistachio either.

Vendome Macaron Bar

If I have to participate in one aspect of the French obsession here, then it's with the macaron. Chewy and soft at the same time. Sweet and melting on the tongue. Time and again, I find those beautiful cookies a delight. And from personal experience, believe me, the best macarons are definitely from Vendome. Heavenly. No other words for it.