by Shandea Williams
Daily Lobo
Before I went to Le French Corner, I expected deliciousness.
I wasn't prepared for what I encountered.
I have tried many so-called French restaurants, but nothing compares to the savory and sweet dishes this little bakery had. This little find specializes in French fare with an American twist, yet it stays true to French cuisine.
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Inside, there was happy, French accordion-style music playing while people busied around in aprons. The first thing you see when you walk through the door is the enormous bakery case. There were almond torts, Çclairs, fresh fruit tarts - the list is never-ending.
I was greeted by a waitress and taken to a cozy little table right next to the window. There was a fresh lily in a vase and a checkered table cloth. All the artwork on the wall was aesthetically pleasing. Its drink menu included many delicious favorites such as cafÇ au lait and Italian sodas, with more than 15 choices for syrups. I have a sweet spot for French coffee, so I had to order a cup. Unlike many restaurants today, you don't have to pay for refills. As long as you are there, the coffee keeps coming.
I couldn't decide whether I wanted breakfast or lunch, so I felt the need to order something off both menus. I decided on the eggs croissant from the breakfast menu - a buttery, flaky croissant filled with two scrambled eggs, ham and Swiss cheese. You can never go wrong with the mixture of cheese and bread. The fluffy scrambled eggs and ham were just an added bonus.
For my lunch item, I decided on the half-size chicken salad sandwich for $4.95, with a side salad for just a $1 more. You can upgrade to a full-size sandwich for $5.95. If you are a fan of chicken salad, you must try it here. The side salad was a good partner to the sandwich. It was full of dark greens and covered in an olive oil and a Dijon-mustard dressing. It has the basics, without all the random nuts and raisins added. Because I couldn't finish it there, I took that and some pastries home with me.
The pastries were perfectly made with the right amount of each ingredient. If you have a sweet tooth and a great appreciation for homemade desserts, Le French Corner has something for every craving - from chocolaty to fruity. You could order a traditional French breakfast called "Le Classique," which consisted of a French baguette with butter and multiple kinds of jam served with a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate for only $4.50.
The restaurant is difficult to find. It doesn't help that it's between Childco Day School and a Brake Stop, but it is worth the search. Although it has a little red awning and three or four tables out front, the busy traffic makes it difficult to enjoy the experience outside.
So, if you are in that part of town and looking for breakfast or lunch, Le French Corner will supply you with all that you need to keep your belly satisfied.
Le French Corner
3905 San Mateo Blvd. N.E.
Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m
Saturday 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
