Philly’s Parisian paradise
The Chestnut Hill neighborhood is so quiet and quaint, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Philly. Fetching stone homes line shady streets, lush with greenery. It’s quite captivating just to walk around, and drink it all in. On Bethlehem Pike, I encountered a lively patio of tony diners who looked like they could’ve been sitting by the Seine. The smell of fresh pastries and coffee was drool-worthy!
If you’ve ever longed for a portal to Europe, Matines Café comes close: an authentic Parisian café, on a charming street steeped in character and history. It’s like you’ve stepped from your busy Philly day into the life of a carefree tourist on vacation overseas. Owners Arthur and Amanda de Bruc are both Paris natives, with a long history in running cafes that highlight the distinct flavors and ambiance of their homeland.
You could say it’s a family business. The de Brucs came to the States in 2014, following Amanda’s sister who was opening her first café in St. Petersburg, Florida. The couple helped out there for a while before moving to Savannah, Georgia to open their own spot, “Café M.” Shortly after, her brother opened Le Petit Paris Cafe in Jacksonville.
Amanda and Arthur ran their award-winning business in Savannah for 7 years before migrating northward to the Philadelphia area, where the environment is more similar to where they grew up – four seasons with an active, vibrant city life. One day by chance they happened upon Chestnut Hill, and were immediately struck by its picture-pretty corridors of homes, shops, bakeries, and bistros.
They quickly fell for this unexpected corner of the city, that felt so unique and yet also so much like home. Matines Café opened here in November of 2022, and is now the 7th café in the family! Matines fits seamlessly into its surroundings, welcoming passers-by with street-side tables and a distinctive turquoise sign. Enter and get in line to order and pay, then they’ll bring you your food.
While the café is a decent size, seating is first come, first served so have a plan or be prepared to wait. Speaking of patience, there’s only one register and the line backs up rather quickly. Be a good neighbor and check out the menu ahead of time so you’re ready to order when it’s your turn. It’s easy – they’ve got a stack of menus right by the door. Just grab one on your way in and browse while you stand in line.
We kicked off our morning with a hearty breakfast spread, including coffee, tea, Nutella-and-banana crepes, and their signature bacon, egg & cheese “Matines Breakfast Croissant.” I was shocked to learn that this iconic sandwich almost didn’t make it on the menu, due to its lack of authenticity. “When we opened our first café in Savannah, we really did not like that idea at all,” they told me, “A croissant is sacred in France — the idea of eggs in a croissant was sacrilège!”
But customers persisted, and the flavors won them over. “Turns out it is absolutely delicious,” they said, “It has been our best seller for years now! The best combo of French-US breakfast foods!” 🙌🥐🍳⭐ (I could not agree more.)
Other fan favorites include the Lafayette baguette triple cream brie with pears, turkey, walnuts and salted butter, as well as the owner’s pick: the Versaille Baguette with grilled chicken, smashed avocado, shaved parmesan and truffle aioli.
Unsurprisingly all their pastries are heaven, not a bad one in the bunch (fans rave about their gluten-free options, too). My personal favorite was the blueberry and cream danish but honestly even a simple bread basket with jams feels special here. Their coffee – by renown local roaster La Colombe – comes topped with silky cream in a beautiful floral design (and a big signature Matines mug!).
Pro Tip: Leave some time for browsing! All around the cafe, shelves and tables display adorable French-themed gourmet goodies and knick-knacks: chocolates, books, imported mustards, croissant candles, macaron keychains – even souvenirs like Eiffel-Tower pens and toothbrushes. All available for purchase, because you literally might as well be in France. 💙🤍❤️😘
While I have not yet been to the City of Light, I feel a little closer now after such an authentic experience of cuisine and accoutrements, with some of the best people-watching around. Until I plan my first trip to Paris, I’m thrilled there’s a place right in Philly that can take me there in an instant. Whether you’re daydreaming like me or reliving travel memories, I highly recommend this little slice of Gallic charm in Chestnut Hill. Bon voyage!
Matines Café and Market
89 Bethlehem Pike
215-866-4383
Open 7 days, 8am – 5pm
Takeout, Delivery, BYOB
Indoor & Outdoor dining (pet-friendly patio)
@matinescafe on FB and IG
🗣️ COMMENTS WELCOME! 🙌
What do you think? Have you been Matines — do you have a favorite menu item? Or a good tip for Chestnut Hill? Please catch up with me on Instagram @gingersliketoeat. If you enjoyed this feature, please check out last month’s column on Philly’s “corner bar culture” (including my top picks for great local vibe).
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