There are more than a few restaurants in Savannah to grab a bite to eat, but none with the ambiance and intimacy, not to mention the fantastic food and courteous customer service like Café M by Maison Montplaisir. Located at 128 E. Bay St., this French café has made quite the reputation for itself, and here’s a few reasons why:
1. A Piece of Paris right off River Street
Café M isn’t just inspired by France. It’s run by a Parisian couple—Amanda and Arthur Montplaisir. With artwork by French illustrator Sempé hanging up on the wall next to “The Parisianer” magazine, French music playing and a collection of café tables with marble tops complete with woven chairs, it’s like stepping from Savannah to Paris when you enter this intimate café located off River Street.
2. Magnificent Macarons
What French café could be complete without macarons? With an assortment ranging from lemon and pistachio to chocolate and coffee, this crowd-pleaser is too tempting not to try. With a colorful array, Café M definitely does not disappoint with this traditional French confection.
3. The BEST Baguette Sandwiches in Savannah
Café M serves five signature baguette sandwiches. Don’t pass up “The Provence,” their most popular baguette, with mozzarella, prosciutto ham, sundried tomatoes, mixed greens and pesto. You won’t be disappointed. They also have a chicken breast salad sandwich dubbed “The Savannah,” as well as one featuring brie, pear, ham and walnuts, called “The Normandy.” For those who prefer something simpler, “The Parisian,” with ham and Swiss, proves to be more than satisfactory.
4. Lovable Lattes
On a chilly morning, nothing is quite as perfect as sipping a hot latte in a cozy café. With hazelnut, pecan praline, toasted marshmallow and pumpkin spice, Café M’s latte selection is sure to satisfy. If you’re going to sit and sip, they’ll even serve you in a cute little mug!
5. Chocolate Croissants & Pink Pralines
The chocolate croissants aren’t the only charmers at Café M! In addition to an always-changing selection pound cakes and swirls (such as cinnamon and strawberry), this French bistro and bakery serves a scrumptious croissant topped with their specialty pink pralines, which are made with almonds instead of Savannah’s classic pecans. These warm delights are the perfect way to start out a sweet day on Bay Street.
6. Twist on Ice Tea: Tea over Ice
Another southern treat with a twist is Café M’s Tea Over Ice, their version of “Sweet Tea.” Instead of serving a chilled concoction that’s been sitting in the fridge all day, upon ordering, they put the tea bag with hot water in the top of the two-part “Tea Forte” pitcher and ice in the bottom half. This fancy pitcher is then presented to the guest, who’s, no doubt, going to be impressed by this brew-and-serve, Steep & Chill Pitcher Set. With flavors including Green Mango Peach, Blood Orange, White Ginger Pear and Herbal Raspberry Necture, their cool glasses of tea are as tasty as ever, and oh so refreshing on a hot day.
7. A Favorite on Upper Factor’s Walk
Located in the heart of the Historic District, this beckoning bistro is situated right off the River Street, just far enough to miss the noisy crowds, but close enough catch friendly faces exploring the shops behind the busy street. Their scenic setting complete with cobblestone streets, wrought iron railways and moss-laden live oaks is as picturesque as a movie scene.
8. Mouthwatering Croissant Melts
If you think a warm, buttery croissant is good, then just wait to be amazed. Café M’s croissant melts are mouthwatering at the very least. Melted mozzarella with sundried tomatoes, pesto and prosciutto on a toasted, flaky croissant is a slice of heaven. Even the simple ham and Swiss or turkey and pepper jack will have you telling your friends to go try it.
9. French Finds in Store
They don’t just have a menu full of food to enjoy in the store, but also a variety of French goodies to take home! From jams and jellies to Nina’s Paris teas and Maxim’s de Paris’ chocolates, there is a small, but superb, selection of gifts to grab on the go. They even have Savannah’s locally-brewed PERC coffee available for purchase.
For more information, call Cafe M at (912) 712-3342 or click here to visit their website.
