Next time you’re craving pastries and French brunch, be sure to give this unique restaurant a try.
Recently, my cousin and I went to a French restaurant called Le Pain Quotidien, a French restaurant and bakery in Claremont Village off Indian Hill Blvd. Le Pain Quotidien was packed when I went and the atmosphere was buzzing with conversation. The restaurant is very spacious inside with high ceilings. There is also seating in a patio area in front of the restaurant.
The atmosphere of Le Pain Quotidien is classy and casual. The atmosphere is lively with the chatter of voices but not too loud. There is still a sense of calm in the environment despite the chatter. The restaurant is decorated simply with a wood theme.
Photo courtesy of Natalie Castillo
The prices of the food were a bit pricey, but, in my opinion, the quality of the food is worth it. The toasted ham and cheese tartine and the smoked salmon tartine (croque monsieur) are both $17. If you want something more affordable, you could get the egg, cheddar and avocado breakfast sandwich for $12.
I ordered the warm grain bowl for $16 and an iced matcha latte for $6. The warm grain bowl had farro, roasted sweet potato, goat cheese, kale, honey, walnuts and cranberries. The combination created a savory flavor with the smoothness of the goat cheese and the crunchy sweetness of the honey walnuts. The bowl had fresh ingredients and came with artisan bread on the side.
Photo courtesy of Natalie Castillo
My cousin ordered a prosciutto and manchego sandwich with dried figs and mustard butter on a french roll. The sandwich came with a side salad and the dish cost $15. The sandwich looked fresh but was on the smaller side. The only disappointment was the portion sizes; they could have been larger considering the price. Needless to say, I recommend ordering the warm grain bowl for the savory flavors that melt in your mouth.
My cousin also ordered an almond chocolate croissant, which looked very delicious. I also ordered a raisin croissant called the pain aux raisins. The croissant was freshly baked, warm and cost $5. The croissant was not only fresh but also a generous size.
Overall, the restaurant serves quality food with fresh ingredients. The portion sizes cannot be shared, however, since they are a single-person serving. Also, the menu has a variety of breakfast and brunch dishes to choose from, such as quiches, sandwiches and a selection of soups and omelets.
Photo courtesy of Natalie Castillo
Le Pain Quotidien also has several desserts and pastries, such as an apple turnover, Belgian chocolate brownie and mini cakes. There are various flavors for the mini cakes such as carrot, apricot and banana chocolate. They also serve specialty beverages such as Belgian hot chocolate, a chai latte, and a matcha latte. Their most popular specialty beverage is the Belgian hot chocolate for $5.
The customer service at the restaurant was attentive and the staff was friendly. Our waiter frequently asked us if he could get us anything. I recommend students to try this spot for the tasty pastries, French brunch and classy atmosphere. Le Pain Quotidien has several locations, which are in Claremont Village, Glendale, Beverly Hills and downtown LA.
Overall, Le Pain Quotidien has flavorful food, delicious pastries and attentive service. If you are near a Le Pain Quotidien, check it out and try the variety of food and desserts they have to offer.
Photo courtesy of Natalie Castillo