French Pastry Shop & Restaurant
French Pastry Shop & Restaurant — photo 2
French Pastry Shop & Restaurant — photo 3
French Pastry Shop & Restaurant — photo 4
French Pastry Shop & Restaurant — photo 5

French Pastry Shop & Restaurant

100 E San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM

★★★★4.2(1,428 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

Tucked inside the historic La Fonda hotel in the heart of Santa Fe's plaza, this French-focused spot has been a local institution for over 50 years, serving genuinely excellent pastries and crêpes that keep regulars returning multiple times a year. While experiences vary—some diners rave about impeccable execution across the board, others note inconsistency in savory dishes—the warm, remembering staff and authentic French bakery charm make it feel like a cherished neighborhood gathering place rather than a tourist trap. If you're visiting Santa Fe and craving buttery pastries and strong coffee in a storied setting, this is worth seeking out, especially if you catch them on a good day.

What to expect

Full breakfastMeetingsSlow sitTraditional drinksEspresso focusedLight foodPastries

Google Reviews

Sarah Davidson
★★★★★2 months ago

We went on a Monday morning while the hotel is still under construction, so we knew going in. It was a limited menu and no restrooms were available. However, we were warmly welcomed and received our lattes quickly (they were delicious). We both ordered the chorizo, egg, and cheese crêpe; we both thought it was excellent with a little bit of spice to it, but I could only eat half of mine; it was so filling. I really wish we would’ve just ordered one of those and shared it along with one Nutella crepe. My only constructive complaint was that I had to ask for water a couple of times, and then we did not receive any water refills.

Tanya Sumner
★★★★2 months ago

I have to agree with James Rose review. We ordered a savory crêpe and the Croque Madame. The crêpe was so overcooked and dried. My Croque Madame seemed to be on a piece of whole wheat toast which I had never experienced with a CM and there was no sign of a Bechamel sauce on it. I don’t like to leave negative reviews yet I must be honest. On the positive side the building is cute, it just appears the restaurant has gone downhill since the owner passed last year. The servers were pleasant enough but definitely not attentive. I had googled another French bakery but this one showed up and my husband thought let’s give it a go. I couldn’t finish my CM, it was that bad. Never again!

mace
★★★★★3 months ago

By far the best café I’ve EVER been to. Every single item on the menu was absolutely phenomenal—presentation, taste, and quality were all a solid 10/10. There’s an amazing variety of both savoury and sweet options, and everything was clearly well made and very delicious. The ambiance was perfect: beautifully decorated, warm, and very comfortable! The service deserves a special mention. Nancy Lee, the lovely woman who served us, was incredibly friendly, fast, and efficient. She gave excellent recommendations and clearly loves the café, making sure every customer feels the same by the end of their experience. She was genuinely pleasant and sociable, in an amazing mood, and easily one of the sweetest servers I’ve ever met.

SkM
★★★★3 months ago

love this little bakery! I make it a point to visit every time I'm in Santa Fe, which is about four times a year. The staff are always kind, always remember me and the pastries are absolutely delicious. The only downside is that it can get very busy and crowded very quickly. it's perfect for a grab and go, but I've never been able to sit down

Jerry E.
★★★★4 months ago

Located inside the historic La Fonda on the Plaza hotel at 100 E San Francisco Street, The French Pastry Shop & Creperie has been a fixture of the Santa Fe dining scene for over 50 years. Unlike the newer, more sprawling French cafes in town, this shop retains a rustic, "old-world" charm that feels like a cozy hideaway from the bustling Plaza just outside. The Atmosphere: Quaint & Historic The interior is small and unpretentious, featuring half-brick walls, a brick fireplace adorned with cast iron pots, and a collection of eclectic European-style posters. The Setting: It feels more like a local "hole-in-the-wall" than a polished tourist destination. It can get cramped during peak morning hours, as it is a favorite for both locals and hotel guests. Legacy: The shop’s long-time owner, Georges Zadeyan, passed away in early 2025, leaving a 50-year legacy. Despite this loss, the shop continues to operate with the same commitment to traditional recipes. The Food: Crepes & Classic Pastries The menu is a mix of authentic French patisserie items and hearty breakfast/lunch options. Crepes (Savory & Sweet): This is the shop's specialty. The Ratatouille Crepe is a savory standout, while sweet options like the Nutella and Banana are popular for breakfast. Breakfast Pastries: You will find traditional croissants, pain au chocolat, and danishes. For the best selection, it is recommended to arrive early, as the pastry case thins out quickly. Service & Value Pricing: It remains one of the more affordable options near the Plaza, with most crepes and sandwiches falling in the $10–$15 range. No Alcohol: Unlike many cafes in the area, they do not serve wine or beer, focusing entirely on coffee, tea, and fresh juices. Hours: They open early making them the best option for early risers in downtown Santa Fe. The Verdict Go if: You want a casual, authentic, and historic breakfast experience without the high-end "Plaza prices." It’s perfect for a quick croissant and espresso or a leisurely crepe by the fireplace. Skip if: You are looking for a spacious, modern cafe with lots of elbow room or a trendy "Instagrammable" brunch spot.

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