Can’t make it to France this summer? Don’t worry! There are many French-inspired restaurants across the Boston metro area where you can find your favorite traditional dish, the perfect glass of French wine, and those enviable cafe vibes. Here are some of my favorites:

MA-France, Lexington, MA: A cafe and grocery story that recently expanded its footprint on Mass Ave in Lexington, this shop is owned by a French couple who sources their ingredients directly from France. Their cafe sells pastries, sandwiches, and freshly made crepes all day long. The grocery store component includes a lovely selection of French cheeses, pantry ingredients including jams, seasonal favorites like roasted chestnuts, and cookies and candies that are staples at any French grocery store.

Make sure to try: chausson aux pommes (apple turnover)

Cafe Sauvage, Boston, MA: This Black, French, woman-owned cafe hosts a monthly French-speaking dinner on the last Wednesday of every month. This community-building event brings together Francophone and French-speaking members of the Boston community to meet each other and enjoy the delicious wine and food at this quaint location. Solo diners can sit at the bar and chat with fellow diners and the bartenders: it’s a true community moment!

Make sure to try: French onion soup and some wine

SALT Patisserie, Newton, MA: This new addition to the Newton restaurant scene boasts a sweeping menu of pastries, sandwiches, chocolates, and cafe beverages – not to mention beautiful chocolate sculptures on display. They have a large seating area indoors and outdoors, or will package your goodies up safely to go (in case your eyes are bigger than your stomach.) I love having reasonably-priced access to gourmet French treats in the Boston suburbs, and while the food is elevated, SALT is truly a space for everyone.

Make sure to try: smoked salmon sandwich and the Oreo eclair

Rochambeau, Boston, MA: On a busy stretch in Back Bay, this restaurant serves brunch and dinner, and often plays host to elaborate networking events due to its proximity to the Hynes Convention Center. Sit at the downstairs bar for a more relaxed vibe or in the main dining room for a white table cloth, fancy environment. If you are lucky enough to be at Rochambeau for an event, you’re one of the lucky ones who can graze small portions from across the menu and try even more dishes! And whether you want cocktails or wine, the drink menu has the perfect accompaniment.

Make sure to try: Frenchie Burger

All of the images above are stock photos.