A Pawtuxet Village Creperie Turns Parisian Cocktail Bar After Dark

Crepe Corner’s Soiree Belge is a destination for both brunch and nightlife

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As the day winds down in Cranston’s Pawtuxet Village, Crepe Corner transforms from a bright and cheery brunch spot to Soiree Belge, a Parisian lounge fit for the crescendo of your evening. 

Day or night, owners Anthony Adagboyi and Natacha Legein are bringing French and Belgian flavors to the neighborhood. But once the clock strikes 5:30pm, the vibe shifts. “Think French jazz, Afrobeat, and your favorite martini or bourbon cocktails,” says Legein. The morning’s mimosas and croque madames are replaced with Kir Royals and savory naan flatbreads for an after-hours indulgence. 

On a night out with a friend to experience Soiree Belge myself, the first thing we notice is the comfort and class. Live music contributes to a sultry, vivacious energy. It’s the kind of setting that attracts a ladies’ night out for Dulce de Leche Martinis, or a nightcap after a romantic date. A large plush sofa invites intimate conversations over martinis, and bistro tables offer seating for groups to enjoy the scene. Whether you’re in the mood to socialize or wind down, the atmosphere is relaxing yet lively. 

Beginning the evening on a sweet note, first we devoured the Banana Split Crepe, filled with pastry cream, bananas, and cookie crumble, and topped with a salted caramel spread. According to Legein, the menu of thoughtfully crafted sweet creations come from “traditional French and Belgian recipes that have been passed from my grandmother, to my mother, and now are used every day in the restaurant.” With both sweet and savory options, there is something on the menu to entice everyone. 

The cocktails match the mood. The Bailaffogato – local vanilla ice cream topped with espresso and cream liquor – makes for the sweetest good night kiss. But Adagboyi’s and Legein’s favorites are the Chocolate Martini (with Godiva chocolate and Kahlua) and the French Blonde, a cocktail comprising vodka, elderflower liqueur, grapefruit, and lemon. 

If you’re in the mood for a light bite, the Namur is ideal. A soft and fluffy naan bread is toasted with slices of creamy Brie cheese, then sprinkled with crushed almonds and drizzled with hot honey. It’s elegant yet zesty and pairs nicely with an old fashioned or one of many martinis on the menu.

While I usually lean toward sweet crepes, not to be overlooked is the savory Le Complet. House-grilled chicken is wrapped neatly into a toasty crepe blanket along with fresh mushrooms, chopped crispy bacon, and layers of cheese and creamy sauce. This indulgent and rich crepe could easily be a satisfying meal on its own.

Soiree Belge takes place every evening Thursday through Saturday, and the last Friday of the month now features a four-course prix-fixe tasting, paired with wine. “All the dishes are traditional to France and Belgium, with a new menu every month,” says Legein. Reservations are a must. 

From brunch to aperitif, sometimes you just don’t want the day to end, and Soiree Belge keeps it going in an absolutely delicious way. 

 

Follow @bunsandbites on Instagram for more of Laura Afonso’s foodie best bets.

Crepe Corner, Soiree Belge2170 Broad Street, Cranston • 401-461-2170 

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