My Delightful French Culinary Adventure at Les Amis Playa del Carmen

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Let me take you along on an incredible French cuisine experience I enjoyed at the fantastic restaurant Les Amis in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. As an expat living in the Riviera Maya, I was dazzled by the way this spot transported me to Provence through mouthwatering dishes, Old World ambiance, and polished yet welcoming service.

Making Weekend Brunch Reservations at Les Amis

I first heard about Les Amis from an expat friend who raved about their weekend brunch. She told me the French-inspired cuisine and perfectly crafted mimosas provide a delightful escape from lively Mexico into the charm of continental Europe.

My husband and I made reservations for Sunday morning. As we approached the elegant patio restaurant, the scent of freshly baked pastries teased my senses. The friendly maître d’ seated us on the shaded terrace surrounded by rustic French details like striped linens and wicker chairs.

Soft accordion music played as we reviewed the brunch menu filled with dishes like duck confit crepes, smoked salmon tartines, and of course flaky croissants and pain au chocolat. I already felt transported as we ordered mimosas to kick things off.

Indulging in Savory French Specialties at Les Amis

The mimosas soon arrived, crisp and refreshing with the perfect balance of tart citrus and bubbly. For my meal, I selected the ham and gruyere crepe along with the spring salad embellished with goat cheese and cherry tomatoes.

My husband chose the open-faced tartine layered with silky smoked salmon, whipped dill cream cheese, and ribbons of cucumber. We also shared a basket of freshly baked pastries – the almond croissants were a standout favorite!

Every dish reflected expertise in French technique and highlighted the freshest ingredients. As I enjoyed my perfect crepe and crisp salad, I truly did feel whisked away to a sweet little cafe somewhere in Provence thanks to this culinary craftsmanship.

Finishing Our Meal with Something Sweet at Les Amis

Though thoroughly satiated, when our server mentioned the strawberry napoleon for dessert, I just couldn’t resist. We ordered one to share and dug into the layers of delicate puff pastry interspersed with luscious vanilla custard and juicy local strawberries.

It was the ideal sweet ending to our incredible French brunch. As we sipped our last mimosas, my husband and I toasted to feeling like we’d enjoyed a little European mini-break right here in Mexico thanks to the transportive atmosphere and cuisine Les Amis had cultivated so beautifully.

Challenges I Experienced During Brunch at Les Amis

My meal at Les Amis Playa del Carmen provided a fantastic taste of France, but a few minor critiques did arise:

Noise levels – Given the open-air setting, ambient noise and conversations carried quite loudly at times.
Limited menu – With exclusively French cuisine focused on pastries and classic dishes, there were few options for dietary restrictions.
Crowds – Arriving later into the brunch hours meant dealing with larger groups and delays for food orders.
Bill shock – Two courses each plus mimosas added up higher than expected. Albeit the quality justified splurging.
Heat – By midday, the sun blazing on the terrace made things rather warm. Seeking shade helped provide relief.

My Tips for an Optimal Visit at Les Amis

Based on my delightful firsthand experience, here is my advice on making the most of your own meal at Les Amis Playa del Carmen:

Come early – Arrive when brunch starts, around 10AM, to beat crowds.
Practice French phrases – Brush up on key vocabulary to engage with the staff and understand menu details better.
Dress fashionably – The classy ambiance calls for date-worthy attire versus beachwear.
Request table in shade – If dining outside, ask for a shaded spot to avoid getting too warm.
Pair sweet and savory – For the full experience, try a pastry plus hearty crepe or quiche entree.
Splurge on wine – Let the sommelier complement your meal with the perfect French wines.
Share dessert – The exquisite pastries will satisfy with just a few bites.

What Makes Les Amis Extraordinary

You may wonder what sets Les Amis Playa del Carmen apart from other excellent bistros in the Riviera Maya. Three details define its excellence:

The Talented Culinary Team’s French Expertise at Les Amis

Chef Christian Rollet brings decades of experience working in France. His technical mastery is evident.

Carefully Cultivated Old World Charm at Les Amis

From details like distressed wood tables to accordion music, each design element transports you to Provence.

Gracious Hospitality at Les Amis

The friendly yet polished wait staff ensure you feel welcomed into this taste of France from the first “bonjour” to the last “au revoir”.

Owing to the culinary prowess, meticulous ambiance, and gracious service, Les Amis offers a uniquely transportive fine dining experience.

Enjoying a Unique Date Spot at Les Amis

While reservations here are open to all, Les Amis’ intimate charm makes it a wonderful choice for couples celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying much needed date time. Here are some tips to make it extra memorable:

Dress sharply – Break out your tailored trousers or chic sundress to match the classy atmosphere.
Learn key French phrases – Captivate your sweetheart by gently whispering “Je t’aime” between bites.
Splurge on wine pairings – Let the somm guide you through fine French vintages.
Indulge together – Feed each other bites of flaky croissants or creamy crème brûlée.
Stroll around after – Explore downtown’s French patisseries hand-in-hand post-meal.

Make it an afternoon filled with effortless romance, gourmet bites, and chances to connect.

My Glowing Recommendation

I hope my firsthand experience has conveyed what an extraordinary taste of France Les Amis Playa del Carmen provides right here in Mexico. Every detail transports you – from the skillfully prepared cuisine to the rustic-chic decor and accordion melodies floating through the breezy dining room and sunny patio.

Whether you’re looking for a perfect date spot or simply want to treat yourself to a morning in Provence without the long-haul flight, I wholeheartedly recommend Les Amis. From the flaky pastries to onion soup au gratin, this charming bistro will exceed your expectations and leave you planning a return trip soon. Please let me know in the comments if you visit! I’d love to hear all about your own culinary adventure here. À bientôt!

Author Bio: Samantha James is a freelance writer and avid traveler originally from San Diego. After falling in love with Playa del Carmen while on vacation, she took a leap and moved to Mexico to embark on expat life. Samantha enjoys immersing herself in the local culture, beach-hopping along the Riviera Maya, and especially seeking out the best regional cuisine. She hopes to provide helpful tips and stories to others planning memorable trips to this coastal paradise.

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Additional Resources and Information

Below is a list of website link resources related to Les Amis in Playa del Carmen:

Tripadvisor – Les Amis, Playa del Carmen: This Tripadvisor page provides menu information, prices, and restaurant reviews for Les Amis in Playa del Carmen.
Yelp – Les Amis, Playa del Carmen: On this Yelp page, you can find location details, opening hours, and frequently asked questions about Les Amis in Playa del Carmen.
Restaurant Guru – LES AMIS BAGUETTERIE & BISTRO, Playa del Carmen: This website provides information about the restaurant, including the menu, reviews, and ratings given by visitors.