You would be surprised at how many SouthParkers battled the Yellow Season by having brunch outside. One favorite spot is Café Monte French Bakery & Bistro. Monte's interior captures the feel of La Belle Époque with tumbled Italian marble floor tiles and the lace café curtains. In fact, owner Monte Smith continuously tweaks the interior, so visiting is an I Spy puzzle experience.

Outside, tables are restricted to the sidewalk which also hosts palm trees in gigantic containers. We wish Café Monte would “storm” the side parking lot to add more patio seating on these gorgeous spring days.

Best I had toute la semaine was Café Montes’ brilliantly crafted Quiche Florentine, a rustic sacre du printemps classic, mais non? The appeal of this locally owned spot translates well into any language – or any season.