Pictured: Scrumptious scratch-made baked goods tempt diners at Mademoiselle Paris. Photo courtesy of Mademoiselle Paris French Restaurant and Bakery.

We’ll always have Paris in Sarasota, thanks to Myriam and Jean Dandonneau, the husband and wife team behind Mademoiselle Paris French Restaurant and Bakery. While they worked in engineering and computer science fields in their native France, Myriam and Jean shared a passion for gastronomy. After visiting Florida, the pair decided to sell everything in France and opened Mademoiselle Paris in Sarasota in 2016.

The concept has grown into three restaurants located at University Town Center, Anna Maria Island and Main Street in Downtown Sarasota. “Each location is completely different,” says Jean. “Anna Maria is decorated in an island style, Main Street is like a little bakery in France and UTC is more modern and airy.” Inspired by France’s strict laws banning substances such as high fructose corn syrup, the couple strives to use natural and local products that make for healthier dishes. “We source local ingredients like honey, tea, coffee, cage-free eggs and all-natural chicken,” he adds. “Like in France, we try to eliminate corn syrup and do the best for our customers’ health.” The chefs make everything, such as buttery, flaky croissants and delectable desserts, from scratch.

Don’t miss the Croissant Breakfast, a hot croissant sandwich with Swiss cheese, bacon and two scrambled eggs with diced fried potatoes and optional add-ons like spinach and avocado. For dinner, dine on the Beef Burgundy, beef slow-cooked in a red wine sauce with carrots and onions served with fettucini. Indulge your sweet tooth with a Napoleon cake, chocolate eclair or a jarred dessert like the chocolate mouse, a portable delight perfect for a seaside stroll. For a more immersive meal, the restaurant hosts wine-tasting dinners showcasing products from small French vineyards and teaching diners about the region from which each wine hails.

In the future, Myriam and Jean aspire to open a culinary school, where students will cook delicious and affordable French cuisine for guests. They also plan to expand their bakery offerings with the addition of an up-and-coming pastry chef. They keep up with industry trends, inspired by a television show called The Best Bakery in France, allowing patrons to experience new flavors. 

Mademoiselle Paris French Restaurant and Bakery, locations at University Town Center, Anna Maria Island and Main Street in Downtown Sarasota. Dining options and hours vary by location. Visit mademoiselleparis.com for more information.

Pictured: Scrumptious scratch-made baked goods tempt diners at Mademoiselle Paris. Photo courtesy of Mademoiselle Paris French Restaurant and Bakery.

Mademoiselle Paris French Restaurant and Bakery