No need to fly to Paris to taste authentic French flavors—just visit High Street’s newest cafe.
If you’ve taken a stroll down High Street recently, you may have spotted a brand new addition to Morgantown’s cafe scene: Little Paris Cafe. The sign promises hot drinks, crepes, and waffles, but this restaurant’s doors conceal more than tasty treats—it’s a whole new culinary experience for the Morgantown area.
When owner Maddie El Abed was in Morgantown to visit his friends at The Mediterranean Guys, he discovered the available storefront next door, at 456 High Street. He had been making crepes since he was 6 years old, taught by his mother, so he couldn’t help but notice the lack of options for French cuisine in the area. Little Paris Cafe was founded in 2023 as a food truck in Maryland, and in that storefront on High Street, it’s found a new place to call home.
As you’re getting ready to check out Little Paris Cafe—and discover your new favorite breakfast spot—here are three things that will make your experience special:
Art
You’ll know you’re in the right place when you spot a fresh coat of colorful paint—Morgantown’s newest mural. It depicts a scene on the streets of Paris, with rose bushes, outdoor seating, and a bright yellow storefront against a backdrop of the Eiffel Tower and a soft pink sky. It was painted by Kelsey Clodfelter, a technical art history student at West Virginia University.
Atmosphere
Clodfelter’s mural offers a glimpse into the atmosphere of the cafe: cozy, sweet, and romantic. El Abed says the cafe’s proximity to the WVU downtown campus and the comfortable atmosphere makes it perfect as a study spot or as a meeting place for local professionals. It’s not just the food that transports you to Paris—the decor is filled with iconic symbols of the City of Love, making it a charming spot for a first date.
Quality
As the only crepe shop in Morgantown, it’s no surprise that customers have already chosen their favorites from the vast selection of crepes, waffles, toast, salads, omelettes, gelato, smoothies, and coffee. If you’re in the mood for an authentic French crepe, try the Strawberry Bliss, Smoked Salmon, or Little Paris crepes. To continue your exploration of iconic French flavors, go with the affogato or gelato. The chicken and waffles have also been a hit—a classic, although not French.
El Abed says quality and quantity are what makes the food taste so good. The freshness is undeniable—in fact, the coffee is roasted right here in Morgantown. Instead of using a mass-produced brand, El Abed chose to partner with a local business: SABO Coffee Roasters. Read here to learn more about how SABO Coffee Roasters turns coffee beans into a tasty cup of joe.
Little Paris Cafe is currently in its soft opening phase, but will celebrate its grand opening after Thanksgiving. El Abed says the menu will eventually feature 60 items total, with additions of even more sweet and savory crepes and croissant sandwiches. And keep an eye out for the Little Paris Cafe food truck at events—this cafe might be “little,” but it’s got big plans.
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