Learn French your way with a TakeLessons expert

by Amandine B. Philadelphia French Tutor

If you’re taking French lessons in Philadelphia, you will be happy to know you're surrounded by a number of amazing opportunities to enrich your educational experience. From French architecture to cultural events, Philadelphia is surprisingly well-stocked in all things French. Here is a guide to help you get started with your French lessons in Philadelphia.

French Restaurants

Do you have a sweet tooth? Guess what, the French do, too! Stop by these French bakeries to sample some delicious pâtisseries and experience a taste of the French lifestyle.

Artisan Boulanger Pâtissier

Artisan Boulanger opens early (like the restaurants in France), so make sure you beat the crowd so you don’t miss out on the delicious delicacies. They have mouth-watering croissants and pains au chocolat, and the breads are also delicious. Try the Banette or the Pain de campagne. They have a few tables where you can sit with your coffee and scope out the detailed map of Paris.

Miel (http://www.mielpatisserie.com/)

This lovely Pâtisserie (French bakery) is decorated with delightful French décor. The madeleines are delicious, but most people come to Miel for the selection of macarons. They also make decadent cakes. Try a slice of Opéra (sponge cake) with a cup of coffee.

Metropolitan Bakery

Make sure you try the canelés! This delicious custard cake is originally from Bordeaux, and is fantastic paired with black coffee. The French enjoy this treat for goûter (an afternoon snack break).

Dinner Options

So Crêpe (http://socrepe.com/)

This is the best place for French crepes in Philadelphia. For dessert, try the So Simple crepe; sugar, butter, and a twist of lemon can go a long way.

The Good King Tavern (http://thegoodkingtavern.com/)

Try the saucisse de Morteau (smoked sausage) or the croque madame (ham and cheese sandwich). Finish off your meal with the café gourmand, a favorite French dessert (coffee with little treats like calissons).

Petit Rôti (http://www.petit-roti.com/)

Need something quick for lunch or dinner? How about a juicy poulet rôti? Roasted Chicken is very popular in France. The French order it in a little bag and share it with the family while it's still hot. You can even pick up a couple of French items from their pantry section.

Learning Resources

French books can reinforce what you’re learning during your lessons. Books can help you understand and visualize the language. Here are some of the best bookstores in Philadelphia.

Mostly Books (http://mostlybooksphilly.com/index.html)

You can find some French treasures among the piles of used books. They also have a lot of excellent French dictionaries and grammar exercise books.

Molly's Books and Records (http://www.mollysbooksandrecords.com/)

This is the best place to find second-hand editions of classic French book. There is a huge selection, and the books are in pristine condition. You can also find some French comics in the image books section.

Head House Books (http://www.headhousebooks.com/)

Besides resourceful French books, this store also has a lot of papeterie (French stationary), which can be hard to find in the United States.

Joseph Fox Bookshop (http://www.foxbookshop.com/)

This store carries a large selection of books on French history and culture.

Art and Architecture

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway was designed by two French architects, Paul Crét and Jacques Grébert, to resemble the Champs-Elysées. The duo also designed the Rodin Museum where you can discover the French sculptor's famous works (Paul Crét was also the supervising architect for the Benjamin Franklin Bridge). While you’re on the parkway, visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation, which features a huge collection of French artwork.

The Landmark Theatre (http://www.landmarktheatres.com/philadelphia)

The Landmark Theatre screens contemporary French films with English subtitles. Check their website to see their French movie line up.

The Bearded Ladies Bastille Day Cabaret

July 14th is France's national day to celebrate the Revolution and the Prise de la Bastille. You can celebrate this right here in Philadelphia at the Eastern State Penitentiary. Witness the madness which includes running baguettes, bearded Edith Piaf, and Tasty cakes.

There are so many places to try French food, and learn about French history and culture in your city. I hope you will explore these places while you take French lessons in Philadelphia. Amusez-vous bien!