Welcome to Douce France
Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, Douce France is a charming French bakery that evokes the essence of a Parisian café. Known for its irresistible breakfast pastries, from flaky almond and chocolate croissants to delectable cinnamon rolls, this local gem prioritizes quality and affordability. Customers rave about the savory galettes, featuring robust flavors like smoked salmon and fresh vegetables. With a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or a leisurely brunch, the dedication to exceptional service and authentic French baked goods makes Douce France a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike. Come savor a taste of France!
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855 El Camino Real #104, Palo Alto, CA 94301 Hotline: (650) 322-3601
Welcome to Douce France, a charming French bakery that transports you straight to the heart of Paris, right here in Palo Alto. Tucked away at 855 El Camino Real #104, this delightful spot is more than just a cafe; it’s a local gem that boasts a cozy ambiance and a menu brimming with baked delights.
From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly baked pastries. Douce France specializes in a variety of breakfast pastries, all priced reasonably at $1.50 to $1.95. This includes their signature plain croissant, the decadent chocolate croissant, and the fruit-laden apple croissant. With such a selection, it’s no wonder that customers rave about indulging in pastries that define French baking excellence.
But the offerings don’t stop there. Douce France is also celebrated for its Galettes, savory crepes made from buckwheat, providing a hearty meal option. Each galette is crafted with care, featuring fresh ingredients. For instance, the La Parisienne Galette comes adorned with Swiss cheese, ham, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, while the La Biquette tempts with a delightful melange of goat cheese and seasonal vegetables. Priced between $7.65 and $8.45, these dishes offer both quality and value.
Customers have sung praises about their experience at Douce France. Xiao T. describes it as a “friendly, cozy, and relaxed cafe” that retains its charm even amid the pandemic. Similarly, Alyia M. lauds the bakery’s croissants, marking them as the best in the area, with a special mention for the delicious ham and cheese quiche. And then there’s Eva L., who finds happiness in enjoying her book over a soft salmon crepe while savoring the delightful outdoor seating.
Douce France encapsulates the true essence of a Parisian cafe. With its freshly baked breads like French rolls at just $0.75, you truly get a taste of France without the hefty price tag. Additionally, the quick service and vibrant atmosphere make it an inviting spot for brunch or a quick coffee break. The buzz of satisfied customers and the aroma of delicious food create a setting that feels warm and welcoming, as described by John F., who points out that the establishment is a popular local choice for breakfast and lunch.
In a bustling shopping area, Douce France stands out as a culinary oasis. Whether you choose to dine indoors or bask in the sun outside, the option of delightful pastries or savory crepes makes every visit worthwhile. So, if you’re in Palo Alto and searching for a slice of Paris, let Douce France be your destination—it promises memorable meals and an experience that will make you return for more.
Friendly, cozy and relaxed cafe - it's my favorite in PA! Great pastry and super friendly staff and they don't try to hike up the price and milk their customers' every dollar, even through the pandemic!
Douce France is my favorite cafe in the Palo Alto area. I've been coming here for a decade plus and, I have to say, their croissants are the best in the Palo Alto/Peninsula area. The prices are extremely reasonable and I've always had a wonderful experience, whether eating in or taking out. Their plain, almond, and chocolate croissants are must-try's. Their ham and cheese quiche and fresco sandwich are delightful as well. Their tartes are yummy and look absolutely beautiful. Service is generally quick.
I stopped by Town and Country for a quick brunch after biking around the city. Since it was a weekend around noon, it was packed full, but luckily I was able to get a table inside. The servers took my order quickly, so I only had to wait a little while for them to heat up the spinach quiche. It was the perfect size, not too big, not too small, and only $5! I liked the flavor and consistency of the quiche, so I'll for sure be trying the other types soon!
This is such a great spot to have a quick bite and get your morning coffee! I really enjoy their outdoor tables and the dining space here. I love grabbing a book to read sitting outside because they have lots of tables available. Their salmon crepe is my favorite here, and I love how soft their crepe batter is. The iced vanilla soy latte is my go-to here, and everything tastes delicious.
Buckwheat crepes! I've always loved this restaurant but haven't been here in a while. The shopping center has become nuts for parking. But this place is still worth coming to. I got a coffee, a delicious butter croissant, and a buckwheat crepe. Heaven!
Great place to have coffee or lunch. Had a café latte with oat milk. Very good ! Also, ordered pastries which were delicious too. What makes Douce France Cafe so special is the whole package. You have good food, inside or outside sitting areas, and boutique shopping afterwards. Service is good but it can get crowded most of the time. It is a popular local spot ! This is my wife and I's local go to for a morning breakfast and shopping. If you are thinking of lunch, they have a good array of options but more cafè style then restaurant style. Depending on the day and time you should be prepared to not find a table. Keep this in mind so when a table becomes available, you might want to have your friend or family member sit while you place the order. Outside of this, prices are reasonable and ambiance is like a local Paris cafè !
Went there on Saturday morning around 8 and it's already busy. Ordered the Provencal-style omelet, Crespeou omelet, it was very good. However, if you don't like goat cheese, the smell of it might be too strong. But the mixed vegetables and mushroom and eggs were perfect! Ham Quiche was good! Very flavourful and fulfilling! Hot chocolate and mocca were good too. The flavour was not too light or too strong! Love it. They also have a selection of pastries that i would like to try next time too! Love the decorations and the restaurant's ambiance here! Feel like a little Paris to me!