Craving Quiche et Crêpe?

A taste of France in Plattsburgh

Story and photos by Ashlie Doran

Look for the blue roof and you will find a taste of France hidden inside.

Roger and Evelyne Metzger of Plattsburgh have opened their doors to give you homemade, all-natural, and highly affordable French cuisine.

My friends and I were greeted at the door of Quiche et Crêpe in the same manner one is welcomed into a home. The restaurant was cozy, relaxed, and cute. Ambient light from the large front windows shined on the red and white walls with dark green lattice surrounding the five four-seater table settings in the main room and the separated corner with small two-seater tables.

"I want to go to France."

A rich picture of a French riviere that looks like it just left the hands of its talented painter adorns one of the walls. It's the kind of gem you would find being sold on the streets of Paris. A little artificial vine runs along the top of the walls. The corners host little shelves with delicate collectibles and a small chandelier. French music played in the background, and I only needed to look down to feel like I was immersed in French culture.

The restaurant is very stylish, yet quaint.

"I want to go to France," my friend Colleen Root said after taking in the restaurant.

Who knows, you may be thus inspired, as well, if you eat here. Only, you don't have to take an eight-hour flight across the Atlantic to experience French culture. In fact, you don't need to leave the country or even the area. France has come to you.

And what is more French than taking one's time?

"In France, people sit and enjoy themselves," Colleen said.

Quiche et Crêpe is a place to enjoy your company and your food. With simple changes in lighting, this restaurant could be sweetly romantic. It's not the place to run in and out. This is its greatest distinction. It's not fast food.

Speaking of the food.

The specially-made cinnamon apple cider is incredible. It's just right, warm, not hot. It tastes like you're biting into warm apple pie. "And it smells like Christmas," my friend Chris George said. It's not listed on the menu, but I would suggest asking for it. Not to mention that it comes in a mug that would be at home in Mrs. Weasley's cupboard.*

The food is well-presented. The matching plates made it feel like we were having a meal in the French countryside.

The ham and cheese croissant Chris ordered was delicious, he said, soft and fluffy. He chose this and a side of cut carrots with light vinegar for $5.25.

Colleen, requested a fruit-filled (Berry Mix) crêpe (really thin pancakes) from the desserts section for $2.50, while my friend Lena Kohlmier asked for Nutella in hers for $2. While she hoped for more Nutella, she was satisfied. Colleen's crêpe was in need of a teaspoon of sugar. The blueberries were a little bitter.

My tomato and onion quiche (sort of like a scrambled egg pie) was light and fluffy. The tomato and onion added a lingering flavor that wasn't overpowering. The homemade pastry-style crust was slightly sweet, but well-crafted. It was not dry, hard or unpleasant.

While the over-all menu is not bursting with options, the prices are very reasonable. You can try French food without breaking the bank. Almost every meal item is under $6, and drinks are $1.50 and under. It is difficult to find these prices anywhere else.

Evelyne was the waitress that day, while her husband cooked. She is very friendly, hospitable, and personable. She speaks with a distinctly French accent. There was no denying the restaurant's authenticity.

She was very busy. On Saturday, September 15, another waitress was needed to serve the families with small children, the couples, the seniors, and the friends. Typically, there are two other waitresses. Nonetheless, we weren't rushed to leave at all. In fact, we were more or less encouraged to stay.

What's your favorite French dish?