A tartine by definition is a French open-faced sandwich smothered in a fancy spread, but anyone who has indulged knows that Sophie’s French Café & Bakery puts this eight-word vindication to shame.
Just beyond the oversized red telephone booth and the lament lilac trees, 1633 W. Snow Avenue marks the end of Hyde Park Village and the beginning to a newfound love for French cuisine. Overflowing with posh vintage décor and vibrant antique sofas, Sophie’s welcoming atmosphere invites you to instantly feel at home.
If the sweet scent of organic chai lattes doesn’t send your senses into a frenzy, wall-to-wall art perfected by fellow South Tampanians is sure to provoke your interest.
Light fixtures made of oversized cutlery gleam brightly over glass cases holding loads of tasty treasures. Fresh classic croissants, assorted French macaroons and chocolate Petit Gateaux’s breathe a Paris theme while the wide variety of charming delicacies create a lively display for new inhabitants.
Thriving since February 2011, this fast-casual eatery has become a go-to for homemade authentic desserts, but also specializes in sandwiches, salads and soup.
Go the classic route with the Quiche Du Jour for $8.96 a slice. This hand rolled savory tart dough typically featuring tomato, spinach, bacon, Gruyere cheese and Asiago is the epitome of France.
The Toasty Roasty is head-chef Miguel Posada’s favorite sandwich. Similar to an American cheesesteak but with a French accent, the combination of hot roast beef, portabello mushrooms, sautéed onions and red peppers covered in melted Gruyere and mozzarella cheese makes for a faultless meal. Who knew it was possible to satisfy two cultural fortes for $8.49?
If roast beef isn’t your preference, the curried chicken salad sandwich wins second place for the spotlight.
Served on a buttery croissant with pecans and sprouts for an exhilarating crunch factor, this sandwich is dainty yet packed with flavor.
Keep it light with the poached pear salad, a true necessity for a hot summer day. Poached in a spicy cabernet, golden pears transform into red pieces of pure bliss. Strewn across a bed of spinach and topped with spiced pecans and bleu cheese crumbles, this $7.96 salad will definitely leave a taste of Paris in your mouth.
Dressed in a drizzle perfected from the reduced poaching liquid, the only flaw with this dish is that you will most certainly want more.
Ordering soup can be a fatal mistake if you’re planning to save room for dessert, but if you’re feeling more savory than sweet go for a cup of spinach, asparagus and leek soup.
Hearty, buttery and rich are three words to describe what you will experience. Another four are: melt in your mouth. You can add a cup onto any sandwich or salad for $3. If you order it solo it will run you an extra 97 cents.
Specialty coffee drinks and a cooler of imported sodas will certainly quench your thirst, but gratefully be aware of the “Bring your own beer” policy.
If you are of drinking age feel free to bring your own bottle of wine or beer to accompany your meal; there is no corking fee.
Don’t forget to bring your student I.D. if coffee is your infinite fixation.
Students who check-in to Sophie’s on Facebook are awarded with a free hot or iced coffee, complete with unlimited refills.
A quiet place with free Wi-Fi to hit the books, a charming atmosphere for an afternoon outing and the only place to pamper yourself with Strawberry Napoleons, Sophie’s French Café & Bakery is an establishment of many tastes.
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. this French eatery patiently awaits your arrival.
Move Sophie’s to the top of your list if you have yet to plan a party for graduation, in and out of house catering is readily available.
For more information visit http://www.sophiesbakerycafe.com/. Merci!
Melissa Santell can be reached at msantell@spartans.ut.edu.