MarieBette

by Charlottesville29

mariebette

700 Rose Hill Drive . Charlottesville, VA . (434) 529-6118
http://www.mariebette.com/

Why MarieBette?

MarieBette is a throwback. While other restaurants try to make history, MarieBette Cafe and Bakery is content to follow it. Instead of chasing the next big thing, owners Patrick Evans and Jason Becton look to the past, serving up faithful renditions of classic, mostly French, breakfast, lunch, and pastries.

And so, there is no pork belly in the Croque Monsieur, no wasabi in the Tuna Nicoise, and the baked eggs are, well, baked eggs. Throw in a breezy, cozy space and local art on the walls, and you’ve got a little slice of Paris on Rose Hill Drive. No wonder some transplants from France say it takes them back home.

What to Order

My seven-year-old son says he plans to take over The Charlottesville 29 one day, and practices by assessing the area’s best versions of his favorite foods. His first two categories are pancakes and chocolate chip cookies, and, after thorough research, he rates MarieBette first for both.

Also not to be overlooked is the pleasure of a simple breakfast. You know those warm breakfasts at boutique hotels that remind you how satisfying a plate of well-prepared eggs can be? MarieBette offers it seven days a week. Below is a list of other suggestions, Evans’ and Becton’s favorites, and appearances in Five Finds on Friday, where a local chef or personality has named a MarieBette dish as one of the best in town.

Our Picks

  • Bakery Basket
  • Canele
  • Brioche Feuilletée
  • The Jorgenson (Tartine of Smoked Salmon, Crème Fraiche, Red Onion, Poached Egg)
  • Croque Madame

Chef/Owners’ Picks

  • Apple Galette (Evans)
  • Bacon, Egg, and Cheddar on a Croissant (Evans)
  • Stuffed French Toast (Becton)
  • Croque Madame (Evans)
  • Tuna Nicoise (Becton)

Five Finds on Friday Picks