La Bergamote

The original La Bergamote in Chelsea opened in 1998; this sister location came along more than 10 years later, a sunny bistro and patisserie that's open all day, every day. The modern, narrow space is framed by picture windows on one side and temptingly displayed fruit tarts and jewel-like chocolate creations on the other. Executive pastry chef Stephane Willemin and partner Romain Lamaze look to the savory side with quiches, omelets, sandwiches, French onion soup and salads, plus there's a full roster of coffee drinks and a modest selection of wine. It's a quiet, out-of-the-way spot—unless you live in Hell's Kitchen, of course—and rarely crowded.