Cheapeats, Inc. Blog

After browsing the Sunday Open Houses, my growling belly let me know it was chow time. I was strolling in the West Village and was ready to hit my usual suspect for brunch. Can Cheapeats already be getting in a rut? Why go to the usual when you can try something new?

I was really in the mood for a good omelette and honestly, the French have it down pat. French Bistro it is, but where?  I walked down Hudson Street looking in windows and reading menus to find the perfect spot. I came across this charming bistro with long burgundy drapes. One glance at the menu and knew we had a winner.

I walked into  La Ripaille and was greeted by a charming French man. Bonjour Mademoiselle, welcome to La Ripaille. Please sit down. Merci Mr. Charm. One look around the room was like a step back into a Parisian Bistro. Exposed brick walls, wood everywhere and sweet french songs playing in the background.

My craving was an Omelette but the crepes caught my eye. Mr.  Charm came over to take my order and I looked up with confusion written all over my face. I’m torn between the omelette and crepes. Mademoiselle, you can always have an omelette. Try the crepes, they are  truly special. Crepes it is and a Cafe Au Lait.

These thin and airy crepes were filled with sauteed spinach and gruyere cheese that melted in my mouth. My side salad with a balsamic vinaigrette was the perfect accompaniment. My cafe au lait was a tad strong but with a drop of extra milk, all was forgiven.

Do you have room for dessert Mademoiselle? I don’t but we all know, the French are known for their desserts. With much coaxing (not really) I chose the warm apple galette.  Could this meal get any better? My dessert? In one word – Magnifique!!!

It’s been quite a while that a meal and dining experience could bring such happiness to your soul but this one did. I walked out with a spring in my step and a smile on my face. Now I admit, this is on the top of the scale for a cheapeater but trust me, it’s worth it.

Their menu says it best. “it’s like going to Paris without the jet lag.”  Merci Mr. Charm.

Happiness, $25 and under.

Tags: French, French Bistro, French Country, La Ripaille, West Village

This entry was posted by Rosemarie on Thursday, March 4th, 2010 at 1:00 am and is filed under French/Bistro, West Village. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.