French mornings

As evident by my birthday dinner at Chez Vincent, I really enjoy French food; although it can be so rich that it becomes a rare treat. The other morning, Kevin and I grabbed brunch with his brother’s family at Paris Bistro. It’s tucked away in a covered outdoor corridor off Park Avenue.

Paris Bistro offers a two-course brunch on Saturdays and Sundays featuring an entrée and dessert. I ordered their spinach and goat cheese omelet, which was very light and creamy. It was served with potatoes au gratin, which were actually very bland.

Also ordered at the table were the hamburger, quiche lorraine and waffle.

They only have one waffle maker at the restaurant, which seems to get backed up easily, so it did take a long time for the waffle to arrive. We had all finished eating before the waffle was presented.

For dessert, I chose the crème brulee.

I don’t think I’ve ever had bad crème brulee.

Overall the food at Paris Bistro was a little touch and go, and the service was spotty. I think there are better French places in Orlando for better prices.

However, next door to Paris Bistro is Le Macaron, a traditional French pastry shop with traditional French macarons. After our mediocre breakfast, Le Macaron was such a saving grace. French macarons are different from American macaroons. The French versions are like little buttery, flakey cookie sandwiches with just a bit of cream in the center.

I bought a box of assorted flavors, including pistachio, white chocolate basil, butter pecan and raspberry.

They’re a little pricey for such small, delicate cookies, but they really do taste like bites of heaven. They’re now a favorite splurge of mine. It’s okay to eat two desserts after brunch, right?

What is your favorite French food?