How to make Raleigh feel like Paris

Hey, Raleigh — City Editor Allie here. The 2024 Olympic Games have got me itching for a slice of the Paris without the price of airfare . With the help of some local businesses, you can make the City of Oaks feel like the City of Light for just one day, no Duolingo needed .

For a meal straight from France

Photo by RALtoday

Bloomsbury Bistro , 509 W. Whitaker Mill Rd., Ste. 101 | If you’re feeling French, you can’t go wrong with a plate of steak frites in this more casual setting.

Coquette , 4351 The Circle At North Hills St. | If you’re looking for a good brasserie, Coquette is the place. Don’t miss croque madames and messieurs at lunch or coq au vin at dinner.

East End Bistrot , 2020 Progress Ct., Ste. 110 | This high-end spot is complete with plenty of fish, veal, and more exclusive bites. Caviar service? Oui, s’il vous plaît!

Jolie , 620 N. Person St. | Chef Scott Crawford’s venture into French cuisine makes for a bright + inviting space. Pro tip : Make sure you try for a rooftop table.

Dessert et ambiance

Photo provided Amitie Macaron

La Farm , various locations | Each La Farm boulangerie feels like it belongs in a little French village — don’t forget a rustic loaf and a few white chocolate baguettes.

Lucettegrace , 235 Salisbury St. | In addition to a wide array of patisserie, grab a jambon beurre box lunch.

Looking for macarons specifically? Little Blue Macaron offers charming seasonal options and movie-inspired macrons to try before seeing a flick at the neighboring Alamo Drafthouse. Mon Macron makes lofty macron towers at its numerous 919 locations for special events. In addition to macarons, try a wide variety of pastry at Amitie Macaron .

For more than just French food but French vibes , head to Lafayette Village for a mini European village in Raleigh’s backyard — and pick up some crepes along the way.

Psst ... if you can’t win a medal like our Raleigh-hailing Olympians , how about a Trophy... beer ?