Viv & Jules

A Washington Street corner spot that treats butter, egg, and bread like the holy trinity, plating French bistro classics with a light American hand.

The marble counter up front does double duty as pastry case and bar, so you'll smell browning butter before you even sit down. Tables are close enough that you'll eavesdrop on a first date or a business deal, and the natural wine list skews toward bottles you haven't seen on every other menu in town. Go early for the croissants — they sell out by 10, and the staff won't pretend otherwise.

Best for: Weekend brunch or a slow solo morning with a book