Long-time readers of my posts already know that I like to promote food and restaurant establishments in New Rochelle. Okay, part of this is my personal semi-obsession with eating. But I also believe strongly that dining is an essential component of a good urban development strategy. High-quality restaurants and cafes shape the personality of an area and often lead to additional private investment. So when someone opens a fine establishment downtown, we all have a small stake in their success.
The latest addition to the downtown dining scene is not a full-fledged restaurant, but rather a charming patisserie in the French tradition. It’s R Patisserie Cafe & Tea Boutique, founded by New Rochelle resident John Reverol, and located, appropriately enough, on Huguenot Street, right around the corner from Division.
Usually, I would offer my own description, but the Journal News did such a good job, that I can simply quote them in full:
If the colorful macaroons don’t get you reminiscing about your latest trip to Paris, the pain au chocolat, fresh croissants and apricot tarts will. All of these delicate treats, coupled with the coffee roasted in-house, loose teas and an Old World vibe make this newly opened patisserie feel more Left Bank than New Ro. Owner John Reverol, above, who opened this tiny jewel on April 22, admits he had to do a lot of work to make what formerly had been a party store into a sophisticated, tin-ceilinged coffee house that encourages lounging. The glittering chandeliers, the comfy sofas and the antique-looking breakfront that displays a variety of teapots and saucers are utterly charming. The pastries are brought in from award-wining French chef Jean Claude Perennou, formerly the executive pastry chef of the Waldorf-Astoria, and the macaroons are from Payard Patisserie in Manhattan.
The peach tart was Jeremy’s favorite. Owen was more partial to Apricot. And Catie likes all things chocolate. Enjoy!