Le Pain Quotidien

I think it’s safe to say that with a presence in 13 countries, French-trained pastry chef Alain Coumont, has created a pastry empire with Le Pain Quotidien. Le Pain Quotidien literally means “daily bread” and was first started in Belgium in the early 90’s. With 17 locations in New York, it’s hard not to notice this quaint eatery filled with delectable breads and pastries.

Le Pain Quotidien considers themselves a bakery and communal table, which is probably one of my favorite things about this cozy chain. Diners have the option of sitting at smaller private tables or joining others at one large table. On the two occasions I have eaten breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, I’ve opted to sit at the private tables, though they are quite close to one another. But despite the lack of privacy, the intimate feel of the bakery paired with the rustic breads makes for a perfect weekday or weekend breakfast.

The cuisine is mostly organic and essentially French. Le Pain Quotidien offers an assortment of breads, soups, salads, and eggs for breakfast, but there is only one thing that I return for.

The reason I visit Le Pain Quotidien is for their Two Soft-Boiled Eggs with bread (see below), which makes for a nice 440 calorie breakfast. Not that I wouldn’t enjoy their other offerings, since I’ve never actually ordered anything else, but I just don’t see a reason in trying something new when you the thing you like is just that good.

Two Soft-Boiled Eggs

Broken Soft-Boiled Eggs

Eggs Up Close & Personal

The two soft-boiled eggs delicately sit on their silver pedestals just waiting for me to devour their milky white shells and creamy yolks. Accompanying the eggs are some whole wheat and sourdough bread with an assortment of condiments including Raspberry & Apricot Jams and a some variation of Nutella, but better! Clearly, it’s very difficult for me to even think about ordering anything else on the menu, aside from some coffee, with steamed milk on the side. Though my friend had no qualms in ordering something else and opted for the Organic Black Bean Hummus Tartine with spicy tahini. The presentation was lovely, though I didn’t have any myself.

Organic Black Bean Hummus Tartine

I hope all of you will stop into the charming Le Pain Quotidien in your neighborhood. Please note that the Two Soft-Boiled Eggs, with bread are only served until 12pm on weekdays and 2pm on weekends.

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN

833 Lexington Ave between 64th & 65th Streets