The block where my nail salon is has just become my favorite place. Not only is it home to my favorite manicurists (& brow waxer) and a hobby train store, but two new places have just opened. I've been eagerly anticipating these since the first "coming soon" signs appeared. Fontaine is a French creperie, and Grape & Bean (can't go wrong with a name like that) is a little gourmet shop focusing on, as the name implies, wine and coffee. They also have a small but interesting offering of artisan beers, local chocolates, and Italian cheese and salami. Plus wine accessories. The owners are bringing a little California to Old Town, something I can support.
I first snuck into
Fontaine during their soft opening two weeks ago and it was love at first sight. So far I've tried the Parisienne (chicken, brie & ratatouille), Zenist (lentils & spinach in curry sauce) and Lemon Drop (sweet) crepes and had a lovely cup of "cream" of asparagus soup (no actual cream) with warm, crusty bread and a pot of green tea. Yum. I'm looking forward to checking out their brunch and their traditional French ciders. And the Bella. Nutella and peanut butter. Could anything top that?
Grape + Bean is tasting only on Friday nights and the weekends, so I'll have to go back for that before I can make an informed judgment, but the wine and beer selection had some unique options. They are also custom brewing eco-friendly coffees in a snazzy coffee machine -- they actually have a daily coffee menu. I just picked up a beer for the hubby's Valentine's gift, but will be back soon.
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