a good sandwich - the croque madame at cafe parisien
a simple egg sandwich for breakfast or lunch, but make it french and served with a knife and fork – the classic croque madame starts with pain de mie (soft, square, white bread), spread with a thin layer of bechamel and slice or two of ham.
shredded gruyere blankets the roof of the sandwich, and it is broiled until the cheese layer melts and bubbles and the bread edges reach a crunchy, golden brown.
this already delicious situation is called a 'croque monsieur.' top the whole thing with a delicate fried egg the shape of a wide-brimmed, lady's hat, and voila – an indulgent, fancy-seeming 'croque madame.'
to make the sandwich even more beguiling, at berkeley's cafe parisien, the croque madame is an off-menu item – 'off-menu' because it's simply the on-menu croque monsieur topped with a fried egg. but it still feels chic to order one.
cafe parisien has quickly achieved impressive, new-classic status in berkeley, attracting loyal regulars since its opening in 2024.
the welcoming, french-inspired sidewalk cafe on shattuck avenue is a place to linger comfortably with or without a dog, a friend, a child or a book – but definitely with a treat from the ample pastry case, a french sandwich or cup of coffee or tea.
springtime in berkeley - scenes at berkeley's french-inspired cafe parisien. photo credit berkeley eats.
there is a good amount of cafe seating inside and out for all weather. it's also a quiet spot to enjoy what often happens along north shattuck – the appealing sound of several languages being spoken peacefully at once.
here that might include native french from cafe parisien's charming french-algerian owner-operator brothers – their half-aprons tied crisply at the waist.
cafe parisien is at 1625 shattuck avenue in berkeley.
march 1, 2026 (more good sandwiches; so grateful for all recent tips; please feel free to forward.)