Shall we brunch? In Paris? If only it was that simple. Luckily, we're sharing our top 5 tips to host an authentic, elegant French breakfast like we've seen when visiting the Champagne region last year. After waking up on our luxe anti-aging Satin Pillow Cases (White Russian shown below), you have to try this DIY French Brunch.
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DIY FRENCH BRUNCH. RULES...
No Mimosas! They only serve Champagne (aka sparkling wine from the Champagne region in France). If you're springing for a bottle of bubbly, you definitely don't want to mask the taste with orange juice. And speaking of OJ, they typically serve fresh squeezed orange juice. Check out your local Whole Foods which sells fresh squeezed orange juice daily.
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(Sidenote) If you get the chance to visit Reims, France (about a 2 hour drive from Paris), it's so beautiful with a famous cathedral and French cafes everywhere. You can tour the Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot and Mumm just down the street from this photo. You can actually view the cellars and how the champagne is made with a guided tours daily with yes, a tasting at the end. Cheers! Now on to the brunch...
1. The Ambiance Can Be Simple - French food is the true centerpiece of your brunch, so you can keep the table decor to a minimum. Even a simple flower like this table in Nancy, France. (The flower was actually fake!) Then make room for the bread, croissants, and of course the Champagne glasses.
#2. A Fresh Croissant and Baguette Per Person - This will be a killer if you're watching your carbs, but this is what they serve. And it's delicious, so visit a French bakery or the best bakery in your city for croissants and baguettes. Warm them in the oven before serving.
#3. Café au lait for everyone! What is Café au lait? French for "coffee with milk") is coffee with hot milk added. It differs from white coffee, which is coffee with cold milk or other whitener added. (Wikipedia)
#4. You Need Bonne Maman Preserves!
These mini jars of jelly preserves come individually for every person with your breakfast in France. The best part is, they sell this exact brand at almost every major grocery store in the US. You know, the ones with the red and white gingham print lid. If you're throwing a huge breakfast for a lot of people and want to have mini preserves for the real French effect, we found cases of Bonne Maman mini's on Amazon Prime here. Yes!
#5. Add your Own Twist - We've also seen scrambled eggs (that look like soup in France), fresh plain yogurt topped with fruit and a variety of meats also served with brunch so you can definitely add in some of your favorite breakfast staples.
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Bottoms up to a non-bottomless brunch (especially if you're pouring real Champagne this weekend. hehe)