Baguette Cafe

French cafes don’t get more authentic than a spot owned and operated by expatriates, and that’s the case with Baguette. Bulgarian-born Nina Manchev, chef/owner of Forte Tapas, said it's a favorite stop: “I love their sandwiches and coffee, as well as the European vibe.”

Olivier Brouillet started the cafe with the help of his parents in 2009 in an obscure spot in southwestern Las Vegas. The valley’s always-increasing pattern of growth means that location is not as out-of-the-way as it once was, and it’s been joined by a second, more visible location in Henderson.

Sandwiches on freshly baked baguettes are the way to go here, with cold choices such as Prosciutto & Salami with mixed greens, walnuts and a blue-cheese spread, and hot choices such as Sun-Dried Tomato Walnut Pesto with avocado, mozzarella, bacon and either eggplant or chicken. There also are salads such as the Ham & Greens, which comes complete with tomato, egg, croutons, Swiss cheese, fresh herbs and balsamic vinaigrette.

But for heaven’s sake don’t miss the pastries, with choices including croissants (plain, chocolate, apricot or raisin), palmier, financier, tarts and so much more. And there’s a whole menu of coffees, teas and juices.