"With its Mucha paintings, embossed wallpaper, ceiling tiles, and a bar lined with wine bottles, The Authentique is the kind of art-nouveau space Francophiles dream about. And the wine is damn good, too. The list features mostly French varieties, and if you have trouble choosing, Authentique does several flights that are a good place to start. They include pinot noirs from Bourgogne that would appeal to any red wine drinker on a budget, or zingy picpoul blancs that are equally as accessible. Also, all their Châteauneuf-du-Papes will sear themselves in your brain upon first sip and stay there forever. Authentique has the usual charcuterie and cheese, but it’s the savory crepes we’re still thinking about. The smoked salmon option is the only thing we want to pair wine with now—it’s a great balance of smoky fish, creme fraiche, and tart capers. " - bailey freeman, ann walczak
