WHY Rustic pastries and breads complement the pâtés and terrines, jewel-like salads, imaginative sandwiches and savory tarts.

WHAT Gold-framed mirrors, cobalt-blue walls and a marble bar give this Parisian-style shop/café a glamorous atmosphere. Carefully chosen beers and wines, foodie gifts and house-made jams round out the collection of spiffy eat-in or takeout dishes.

WHO French ex-pats lounging over pain au chocolat and cappuccino, fashionable young shoppers from the 3rd Street boutiques.