Pierre Michel’s Croque Monsieur

In the heart of a Highlands Ranch strip mall lies an authentic slice of France. Pierre Michel–Organic French Bakery Cafe twinkles with French music and owners Eric and Isabelle’s singsong as they banter behind the counter.

The duo bakes up flaky croissants and buttery pastries each morning (get there early for the best selection), as well as fresh quiche, cozy soup, and classic sandwiches for lunch. I’m a sucker for the croque monsieur: Each bite of the melty, grilled ham-and-Swiss sandwich takes me back to the Parisian cafe where I had my first croque.

Bonus: Pierre Michel does pizza (baked up on their baguette dough) on Fridays. I’ve got my eye on the Alpine, which is topped with potatoes, bacon, cream sauce, and cheese.

3624 E. Highlands Ranch Pkwy., Ste. 205, Highlands Ranch, 303-471-4828