Brunch at Le Barricou

I wish I lived around the block from Le Barricou, or even better, inside it. The huge space features glass doors which open out onto the sidewalk, exposed-brick walls, a high mustard-stained wood-planked ceiling, a large back room with a piano, and a tiny outdoor patio. There's even an ATM machine back there! I'd have no reason to go outside.

I'd start out each morning with a free basket of freshly baked croissants and pain au chocolat, trucked in each morning from the owner's Bushwick bakery. At any rate, that's how I began my brunch today. A buttery croissant and an excellent Gimme Coffee cappuccino took the edge off my hunger while I decided to order the pissaladiere, then changed my mind and got the eggs Norwegian (at $7.50, a steal). Thickly cut herbed home fries and a romaine and baby spinach salad accompanied two English muffin halves topped with a nice portion of smoked salmon, Hollandaise and poached eggs. The couple next to me ordered the freshly ground grilled burger; the French fries looked tantalizing.

According to the owners, live music and wine-tasting events will soon be held in the newly renovated back room. It's going to be difficult to stay away from this place!

Le Barricou: 533 Grand St., Williamsburg, Brooklyn, (718) 782-7372. Weekend brunch till 4!