MAMAN

If it is ever a possibility to move into a restaurant, let it be known that I call dibs on Maman’s Tribeca location! With wooden framed couch-like benches that frame thick plush blue canvas pillows that are aligned back to back with paneled wooden coffee tables separating them that lead back through the white walled space to the country cottage styled dining area outfitted with reclaimed wood community tables, the space feels like home, you know the kind you dream about. Beyond that, the food has a homemade family feel that cannot be missed.

Founders Armand Arnal, the head chef at Michelin Star restaurant La Chassagnette in the South of France, entrepreneur and restaurateur Benjamin Sormonte, and baker, event planner, designer Elisa Marshall united to bring this warm homey atmosphere to be a respite to the insane hustle and bustle that is New York City. Honestly, I have yet to find a more successful iteration of this than at their Tribeca location. Like I said, I’d move in tomorrow.

It’s this feeling combined with the attention to detail. With a menu comprised of a killer Deconstructed Avocado Toast served with several fixings so you can dress each slice or bite to your liking—that so stood up to their recommendation—to the savory Niçoise inspired quiche, and all of the pastries in between, there is not one dish that I wouldn't highly recommend. In fact, I'm extremely eager to go back, sit with a cup of unaltered black coffee and try some of the dishes I didn't get a chance to order—and, in this case, I say “try” with the full understanding that I'm going to live them all! Back to those clutch details, with the food being as excellent as it is, they could certainly get away with serving it on a plain old thoughtless dish. No, they have the most eye-catching collection of blue and white Parisian inspired mix-match plates. I’m entirely obsessed with their rabbit one. Really, if I’ve gotten to raving about the dishes you know you have to go. Go and let’s chat about it after!