The French Pastry Shop in downtown Santa Fe is as authentic as a Paris crepe stand.
In downtown Santa Fe, most restaurants are Mexican-style, so The French Pastry Shop stands out precariously.
My expectations weren’t high, as I’ve tried many crepes outside of Paris and disappointment usually follows. I’m happy to report that was not the case this time.
It was raining in Santa Fe on a Saturday at about lunchtime and the crowds were clambering for a seat indoors. I queued up with them and quickly received a seat in the café.
When you enter from San Francisco Street, the first thing that greets you is a big glass pastry case spanning the entire front of the restaurant. Above, you’ll see a chalkboard outlining the menu and the hostess; Nancy greeted me.
Nancy and her husband George moved from France in 1974 and they brought French food, quality and service with them. You can tell Nancy isn’t the type to pull any punches. Just like my favorite Paris proprietress, she was keen on customer service.
I was quickly seated in the packed restaurant, filled with little wooden café-style tables and a waitress approached with a menu immediately. Everyone around me was quietly stuffing their mouths with quiche, pastries, and crepes.
I was eager to join in. I ordered a cappuccino and was a bit tickled to see it served Mexican-style with a bit of cinnamon, which is precisely how I like it. It was a divine cup of coffee.
Next, I order a jambon and fromage (ham and cheese crepe), minus the egg. As I said, I’m a crepe snob, so I was prepared for the acceptance of what may come. What came was as good as any Paris crepe I’ve ever had. The ham was homemade, the cheese abundant and the crepe perfection. I was taken back in time.
For dessert, I order an almond cookie dipped in chocolate and my only regret was that I drank all of my coffee before I ate it. It could have come directly from France.
The waitresses were prompt and efficient and before I knew it, I was back on the street with plenty of time to make my pending appointment.
The restaurant also serves traditional French dishes like Croque sandwiches, baguettes, ratatouille, tourte Milanese and sweet dessert crepes.
Find it at 100 E San Francisco St In La Fonda Hotel Santa Fe, NM 87501. Or visit www.thefrenchpastryshop.com.