Cappuccino's & Croissants: Introducing Cafe Madelaine
Situated at the intersection of Coles and Second St., this spacious, breezy café opened in mid-July and is quickly building a loyal clientele. Housed in the spot of a former bodega, the café is the creation of Anne Dufour, who was one of the owners of French Café Gourmand, which was located in NYC’s Financial District and is now closed.
The shop opens up at 7:30 am, just in time for commuters to grab a coffee or café au lait while others settle in among the nicely spaced out tables to enjoy an unhurried breakfast and free Wi-Fi (there is outdoor seating as well).
The staff is sweet and friendly. The menu is unpretentious, classic French bistro fare – croissants, pastries, croques monsieur and madame, sandwiches, salads, quiches and desserts. After all, why mess with perfection? That said, there are two distinctly American additions to the menu – the cold-brew coffee (which was truly as smooth and delicious as they come) and Café Madelaine’s version of the ever-ubitiquos avocado toast. Their version comes on a multigrain croissant and is served with tahini dressing.
Café Madelaine will also start hosting live music on Fridays. A recent sign on the door announced a live Brazilian jazz band, starting at 8:00 pm, and it’s BYOB. On our last visit, we overheard one woman telling her fellow yoga-outfitted companions that the quiche Lorraine was the best quiche she has ever tasted, and worth every calorie. After trying, we completely agree. Welcome to the neighborhood, Café Madelaine!
34 Coles St., 201-499-3691