In addition to our affinity for Boston accents, we’ve had a shared interest in French-inspired things, restaurants, and museums since we’ve known each other. Perhaps it was inspired by our many after-church brunch dates to Cafe Lutecia in Philly or De La Coeur (before it closed) or our visits to historical French-inspired mansions such as Nemours. I’d find myself swooning over chinoiserie items that you’d typically find in Parisian homes and we’d often visit French restaurants, indulging in soups, sandwiches, and a variety of dishes. Recently, we started thinking about how there are quite a few places you can go to in Delaware specifically that can provide you with a little glimpse of Paris in the states. While we know it’s likely nothing like visiting France, there’s plenty of either French-owned or French-inspired museums, restaurants, and other establishments here that are worth exploring.
In today’s post and in honor of the Olympics in Paris, we thought it would be fun to share some ideas for experiencing a little taste of Paris in Delaware. This list isn’t all that there is to do in Delaware, so we may have to create another post of us going through a day or a weekend doing these things and others, but here are some of our recommendations of what you can do.
EAT AT CIRO FORTY ACRES FOR BREAKFAST
Formerly the spot of De La Coeur, Ciro Forty Acres is a bistro that seems to be a great spot for breakfast. We haven’t tried it yet, but it’s on our list of places to try as it still has the same indoor and outdoor seating that we loved about De La Coeur and is very close to many neighboring museums. Enjoy a Croque Madame or Quiche Lorraine and wash it down with an iced latte.
VISIT NEMOURS MANSION :
Aside from the DuPont connection, the architecture and interior of Nemours is highly inspired by the family’s French heritage. Everything from the arches in the garden, to the chinoiserie designs in the inside of the mansion makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a wealthy mansion in France. It’s absolutely stunning and a museum I’d recommend you visit.
VISIT WINTERTHUR:
Winterthur is another DuPont Mansion in Delaware and it is stunning. While the outdoor garden looks very different and more forest-like than Nemours, Winterthur is the largest DuPont mansion in Delaware and is truly a sight to behold. Spend time doing a guided tour for an hour at the museum or frolic through the outdoor space on your own. It’s open until 5, so I’d recommend heading to the museum no later than 2pm. You can read about our Winterthur experience here.
DINE at le cavalier:
Le Cavalier has quickly become one of our favorite places to dine at when we’re in Delaware, looking for a nice brunch or dinner experience. There isn’t a meal we’ve had there so far that we haven’t liked and we’ve been there for breakfast, brunch, and dinner. The food is great, the ambiance is beautiful, and the service is always wonderful. Check out Han’s post on one of our experiences there.
VISIT THE ART MUSEUM:
The Delaware Art Museum is not only close to Ciro Forty Acres, but it’s so beautifully designed on the inside that some of the galleries look like art galleries you might find in Parisian environments. There’s also a nice outdoor art exhibit with sculptures and a labyrinth that you can visit. It’s also free on Sundays!
DINE AT WILMA’S
Although Wilma’s is not technically French cuisine, it’s New Orleans-influenced, so it has some French touches here and there. It’s a bowling alley, but one of the highlights is the food.
WALK ALONG BRANDYWINE CREEK AT BRANDYWINE PARK
Did you know that during the cold winters, people used to ice skate the on Brandywine Creek? I didn’t know that either, but it’s true! Although, it’s nothing like walking along the Seine River, the creek runs through the city so during your walk you’re surrounded by trees, and skyscrapers.
Visit Fable in Delaware
In addition to it being such a beautifully decorated space, this restaurant has an impressive menu comprised of French dishes and is located in the beach town of Rehoboth Beach in Delaware.
GRAB COFFEE AT LA BAGUETTE
Whether you’re looking for a latte or seeking a bite to eat, this cafe has you covered. Try one of their French sandwiches or pastries and a caffeinated beverage if you’re staying near Dover or Lewes.
DINE AT BRASSERIE DU SOLEIL
This French restaurant boasts delicious, authentic, French cuisine such as Boeuf Bourguignon and Plateau de Fromages. If you’re looking for a real, French dish, this is your place to go.
Taken at Nemours Mansion and Gardens
Grab Coffee at Centreville Place Cafe
This cafe that we’ve visited before is nestled right on Kennett Pike and has French pastries, sandwiches, and lattes that are certainly worth the visit when you’re in the area!
What about you? What are some of your favorite French-influenced places in Delaware that you’d recommend?
