Cafe Vendome, Atlanta

Behind a glass wall at Café Vendôme, guests can see into the kitchen of masterclass pastry chef, Chef Karl. The young pâtissier lines counters with flour as he prepares to knead dough for the traditional crisp-crust, soft-center baguettes the cafe serves daily. But Karl is known for much more than just his bread. He has been recognized across France, winning baking competitions and working with famous chefs.

Chef Karl shows off his culinary prowess with bite sized entremets, seen among the many refined pastries that line the cafe's counters. The Caramel'ô, for example, indulges guests with a dark chocolate mousse on a biscuit and streusel crisp, paired with creamy caramel and chocolate. Apart from sweets, the chef whips up an assortment of salads, quiches, and of course, sandwiches stacked on fresh-made bread.