Cheer For Les Bleus With A Taste Of France This Bastille Day Weekend

Nana Ozaeta

July 12, 2018, 02:14 PM

If you’re French (or love all things French), then this is your weekend to rejoice! Not only is it Bastille Day on July 14, but the French national team (known as les bleus) are playing the finals of the World Cup on July 15. While there are a host of French restaurants around the country, few and far between are the French “imports” that have opened branches on our shores. So if you’re hankering for a taste of France straight from the source this Bastille Day weekend, then check out these three spots for comforting French classics, as well as authentic French breads and pastries.

La Mère Poulard

Upper Ground Level, SM Aura Premier, Bonifacio Global City, (02) 838-1238, (0917) 580-0137,

Just opened early this year, the first Philippine branch of this French restaurant based in Mont Saint-Michel offers a comforting “home away from home” feel with rustic dishes that hail from the Normandy region.

Pan-fried jumbo scallops with leeks, spinach leaves, and white wine sauce

Signature dishes include Pan-fried Jumbo Scallops, Salmon and Cod, Chicken Supreme, and of course, the famous Puff Omelettes.

the famous Puff Omelettes

You can even watch the chefs whisking the eggs in a copper pan as they prepare this iconic La Mère Poulard take on the classic French omelette.

Paul Boulangerie

Bench Tower, 30th Street corner Rizal Drive, Bonifacio Global City, plus branches in Rockwell Power Plant, SM Aura, SM Megamall, Facebook @paulphilippines

This famous French café-bakery chain is ubiquitous around the world as a go-to place for a simple French-style breakfast, lunch, or in-between snack. You’ll find French fare with names such as tourte, paillasson, crepe, tartine.

A haven to the bread and pastry lovers at @paulphilippines

But don’t fret as they also offer more familiar café fare like salads, pasta, and sandwiches, plus well-known French classics like Beef Bourguignon and Poulet Roti. Of course, the breads are baked in-house using time-honored French breadmaking techniques, and the French pastries are as traditional as they get.

decadent and chocolaty Choclat Chaud

Photo from @paulphilippines

Eric Kayser

Branches in Rockwell Power Plant, San Antonio Forbes, Rustan’s Makati, Central Square BGC

French baker Eric Kayser led the artisan breadmaking renaissance with the establishment of Maison Kayser in France, soon expanding all over the world, including the Philippines. This renowned bakery offers among the best breads in town, including the iconic baguette monge, plus specialty breads like tourte de meule, rustique bread, and pain de mie.