Sasha's baking company, Kansas City

Americans have a love affair with France for decades, if not centuries. One of the most interesting books I have ever read on France is the prolific David McCullough’s The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris, in which he discusses early Americans’ interest and downright fascination with France, and Paris more specifically. French styles in homes and décor are as popular as anything else out there and France remains a number one tourist destination for Americans year after year.

In the time I spend back in my hometown, Kansas City, Missouri, I always enjoy discovering new places that pop up – and there are many. One of my most recent favorites has been Sasha’s Baking Company in Downtown KC, where you can get your Paris and Amsterdam fix at the same time (because, in my opinion, the interior is more Dutch than French). The menu is typically French, but familiar for Americans, and the breakfast pâtisseries are to die for. I’m so thankful to have this taste of France so close to me when I return.