Rendez-Vous French Bakery and Bistro
1576 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Oakland Park, 954.563.2228, rdvbakery.com
“Oakland Park culinary experience” is quickly becoming something you can say non-ironically, and this wonderful little spot is doing its part. This is a breakfast, lunch and dinner spot and as the name indicates, they’ve also got all the fine French baked goods you’ll ever need.
Sage French Café and Wine Bar
2378 N. Federal Hwy., 954.565.2299, sagecafe.net
Sage pulls off that neat trick of being urbane and stylish without pretension. The classics are all there – coq au vin, cassoulet, a good line of crepes. But also stop to appreciate one or two of the more left-field suggestions, such as the octopus with hummus starter. Also check the usual early- to midweek specials.
Croissan’Time French Bakery
1201 N. Federal Hwy., 954.565.8555, croissantime.com
For more than 30 years, this little shop and café has offered hard-to-find continental items – the undisciplined shopper can blow a month’s cheese budget in one go here, not because it’s all so expensive, but just because you’ll want everything. Stay for lunch and a pastry – like some of the baked goods they make in the back.
Le Patio
2401 NE 11th Ave., Wilton Manors, 954.530.4641, lepatiowiltonmanors.com
What’s French for “totes adorbs?” This tiny bistro feels more like a rustic French village café than anything that close to Five Points really should. Hearty peasant fare is done to perfection here. Like, every other restaurant in the world does French onion soup, but you won’ t often find it done to perfection. You will here.
