There’s a new café in Plaza Midwood that feels like it was plucked straight from the south of France. Maman, the cult-favorite New York café known for its rustic French-inspired fare, dreamy interiors, and famously addictive nutty chocolate chip cookie, has officially opened its first North Carolina location. Nestled in the new development between Commonwealth and Central avenues near fellow newcomers Van Leeuwen and Uchi, Maman Charlotte brings a fresh dose of European charm to Charlotte’s food scene. In just a few weeks it has already become a destination for coffee dates, leisurely brunches, and remote work sessions alike. In fact, lines are consistently out the door on weekend mornings.
If you’ve spent any time scrolling through food-focused Instagram accounts over the last decade, chances are you’ve come across Maman. Since opening its first café in New York’s SoHo neighborhood in 2014, the brand has built a devoted following. Credit goes to its inviting aesthetic, signature baked goods, and strategic partnerships. And, of course, there was the shoutout it earned from Oprah in 2017, which skyrocketed the brand’s reputation. What began as a single neighborhood café has grown to over 50 locations across the U.S. and Canada. Each space evokes the warmth of family gatherings and the relaxed beauty of the French countryside.
The Charlotte location feels perfectly suited to Plaza Midwood, a neighborhood obstinately and eclectically mixing old and new – to delightful effect. Step inside and you’ll find hand-textured walls, imported blue-and-white tile, custom toile-patterned espresso machines, and vintage furnishings. Overhead, floral installations featuring magnolia and jasmine soften the space. Ultimately, the result is an atmosphere that feels equal parts café, North Carolina patio, and European country home.
The menu balances French bakery classics with approachable café staples. Guests can stop in for flaky croissants and espresso in the morning. Or, enjoy fresh salads and sandwiches at lunch. Perhaps even settle in for a leisurely weekend brunch. No matter when you visit, don’t expect to resist the lure of the bakery case. Filled with the pastries and sweets that have helped make Maman a national favorite, it’s practically a work of art.
Charlotte guests will also find two pastries created exclusively for the Queen City. The Peaches & Cream Danish combines layers of buttery croissant dough with peach, vanilla cream, and a honey-oat crumble. On the other hand, the Mac & Cheese Croissant takes a more savory route. Picture homemade macaroni and cheese and scallions tucked cozily into a flakey croissant. Both feel playful, comforting, and distinctly Southern while still fitting seamlessly within Maman’s French-inspired menu.
If you’re a nationally-recognized hospitality brand moving into a neighborhood with as much originality as Plaza Midwood, you might expect a bit of an uphill battle. However, if you move in with flakey pastries and gooey cookies on hand, chances are good you’ll be met with open arms, like Maman. The reception has been so warm, in fact, that Maman has already opened additional Charlotte locations in South End and West Midtown.
