by Nikki Metzgar - 206 Reviews - 77 List
France's Bastille Day, which falls on July 14 every year, is generally celebrated with food, fireworks and summery activities--three things we enjoy very much. So why not get into the act? We've got countless French spots worth a visit so somewhere between the apertif and tarte tatin, light a sparkler for our Gallic friends. (Photo credit: SpecialKRB)
Updated: July 07, 2010
Start your Bastille Day in Houston off right with a crepe from Buffalo Sean's stand in front of Mango's. Fillings are both sweet and savory although the Nutella is hard to pass up.
All the way out in Humble sits an old Pentecostal church that was transformed into a top-notch French restaurant. It's a must visit for Houstonians and perfect for romance.
This tiny, candlelit restaurant has long been a local favorite. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, try the andouillete, a sausage made mostly of tripe. Otherwise, stick to the unbeatable mussels.
This Rice Village bierhaus is not remotely French but it does afford the opportunity to play bocce, a game nearly identical to France's petanque. It'll be more authentic if you smoke and look effortless skinny while you play.
Anise-flavored Pastis and Herbsaint aren't everyone's cup of tea, but if you're looking for a classic, well-executed French cocktail, this is where to get it. Order a French 75 or the Champs Elysees.
No Bastille Day celebration (or any celebration) is complete without dessert and that's where French Gourmet comes in. Vive le croissant!
Not only does this homey bistro offer a bargain lunch and dinner special of casual French eats, it also hosts the French Buzz, a social club where native and non-native French speakers are invited to converge over wine tastings, films and, of course, food.
Here's a good place to try all the food you have only seen in "Ratatouille": vichyssoise, duck l?Orange and foi de veau (that's pan-roasted calves livers) fill out the menu of French classics.
Expatriates and older couples spend hours here perusing the newspaper and chatting over sandwiches, espresso and savory quiche.
For something tres francais and a little fancy, try the petit fours at this Houston bakery.
