Today would have been Chef Julia Child's 106th Birthday. Known for bringing French cooking to American kitchens in the 60’s, we’d like to think Child had something to do with the immense amount of French eateries serving up unforgettable dishes. To celebrate her today, we discuss our favorite French bistro's in the area.
In pure French bistro style, La Minette serves up fresh produce and unprocessed ingredients. Trust us, the Escargots à la Bourguignonne are the perfect first course to enjoy in the outdoor dining area. 623 S. Sixth St., 215.925.8000
Royal Boucherie's charcuterie and raw bar are available all day, leaving you to decide if brunch, lunch, or dinner will best suit your French cravings. If you’re a fan of the classic eggs en cocotte—a baked egg with pork belly & cheek, oyster mushrooms, béchamel and smoked cheddar—make a point to stop in for brunch. 52 S. Second St., 267.606.6313
Perhaps the city's most notable French eatery, Parc offers a menu fit for everyone. For those movie nights in (Julie and Julia, anyone?) the restaurant delivers, but if you’re looking to reminisce about past adventures, take a seat at one of the al fresco tables for prime people watching and views of Rittenhouse Square. 227 S. 18th St., 215.545.2262
Chef Townsend Wentz and Sommelier Lauren Harris are a dream team, working together to serve some of the best food and wine pairings outside of France. The five-course tasting menu takes you through a range of flavors, starting with blue cobia tartare and ending with lemon curd. 1623 E. Passyunk Ave., 267.639.3203
You can brunch a la française all week at the Sofitel Hotel. Chef Edward Hancock incorporates classic french cooking with modern ingredients, giving us delicious options includng the croque madame and farmhouse duck skillets. 120 S. 17th St., 215.569.8300
Offering both French specialties and American classics, Chez Ben wants to bring people together for occasions both big and small. Grab a Parisian breakfast, which includes a cafe au lait and a croissant, with a philly omelette all in the same go. 401 Chestnut St., 215.931.4260
Be one of the first to soak in the large indoor and outdoor dining at Louie Louie—the newest American bistro with French influence that just opened mid-July. Look to the caramelized onion tart for an authentic and comforting meal. 3611 Walnut St., 267.805.8585
Photography by: Photography courtesy of: Neal Santos (Parc and Townsend)