Ooh la la! A touch of Paris has arrived in Naples. Naples, Florida, that is
Just returned from an off-season visit to our favorite winter getaway. We stumbled onto a new cafe every Stylish Traveler will want to check out come snow season, so take note:
Don’t be turned off by the location. Grain de Cafe’ is tucked between a travel agency and yogurt shop in a strip shopping center along Rte 41 (Tamiami Trail N.)
Isabelle and Pierre Frittoli (his mother was French and father was Italian) bought what was an old run down coffee shop and spent over six months transforming the space into a charming Parisian café.
“For us, cooking and taking care of our guests is a passion and gives us lots of satisfaction,” says Pierre in a very heavy French accent.
Before coming to Naples they lived and worked in Cannes creating fine foods for the famous movie festival and private events for VIP’s.
The look: Pink walls, miniature chandeliers, display cases filled with tempting homemade French pastries, tarts and macaroons.
The Menu: A Classic Croque Monsieur, Quiche Florentine made with fresh eggs, heavy cream and lots of Swiss cheese; typical French sandwiches made with crusty French Baguettes filled with ham imported from Paris plus interesting soups and salads, from classics to creative. My favorite is the Vegetarienne Healthy Salad, a mix of bulgur wheat, chick peas, black olives and artichoke hearts atop assorted veggies and field greens.
The perfect way to end the meal? Sip an espresso (or glass of wine) and share a homemade “Tarte fine aux pommes.” You won’t regret it even if it means another hour at the gym.
Grain de cafe’
8803 Tamiami Trail N
Naples, FL
phone 239 594-8081
(no website just yet.)
Let us know what you think…
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