The French Workshop opened its doors on April 7^th, 2025, just two blocks from the subway, and it was practically impossible not to notice. With its eye-catching open kitchen, indoor tables for miles, and mouthwatering confections, the French Workshop almost feels like something out of its place and time. Theodora Christophorou, Vice President of Operations, explained that the goal was to bring an offering that the community could embrace. “I think the concept is attainable luxury,” she said. To say that The French Workshop is luxurious would be an understatement. It’s downright elegant.

The space is stunningly beautiful. The first thing you’ll notice: this café is huge, and not just for a café in NYC, but anywhere. The inside is modern, bright, open, roomy with high ceilings. And with exterior walls made almost entirely of glass, it’s inviting from the street. There’s plenty of seating at both tables and booths. In fact, it’s almost shocking this spot even exists in a world that’s become increasingly grab-and-go. “The tiles are placed individually,” Christophorou said. “Everything shows the level of detail.”

The desserts are, of course, the crown jewel of The French Workshop, and children of all ages can watch with delight as pastry chefs create masterpieces right in front of them. Visible from both the street and the inside of the café, the open kitchen shows off exactly the care and craftsmanship that goes into each treat served. The kitchen is so clean, precise, and organized that it would probably make a cooking show host faint. “We have nothing to hide,” Christophorou said.

Selecting your first delicious morsel at The French Workshop can be overwhelming. There are pastries, cookies, quiche, chocolate bark, sandwiches, crème brûlée, brownies, and so much more. If you find yourself at a loss, Christophorou offers a recommendation. “Try the melody,” she said. “I haven’t met one person who doesn’t like it. There’s a layer of crème brûlée on the bottom and then chocolate mousse cake. It’s balanced. It’s not too overpowering. Can’t go wrong.”

The fall and the holidays are a great time to visit the French workshop. Christophorou explained, “We have so many specials and so many things coming. Pies are coming that will be huge. We usually do cookies with Santa.”

With several other locations in New York, the French Workship is working hard to establish its reputation as a modern take on the cafe. “We’re excited for Astoria: year one. It’s a little vacation of your everyday,” Christophorou said. “You might be really stressed. And you come in, and everything is beautiful and great and elegant, and it’s a little break from reality. And delicious. Don’t forget that.”

25-33 Broadway / phone: 718.766.0949 / thefrenchworkshop.com / Yelp: 4.2