Clematis, West Palm Beach's bustling downtown street, has been adding new eateries like wildfire. One of the newest is Paneterie, a French bakery and cafe, which hopes to capitalize on the dearth of similar concepts in the area.

This dainty, picturesque cafe is located on the Flagler end of the street, next to Palm Beach Dramaworks. The goal here is to cater to those with a sweet tooth, early birds, lunch-goers and those who just can't stand anything but top-quality French breads and pastries.

Entering Paneterie, you can't help but be in awe over their pastry display. The macarons, eclairs and chocolate croissants are mouth watering. Even if dieting, you will be forced to sample, and then undoubtedly buy a box to – cough, cough – "take back for the family."

Paneterie patrons, in awe over the pastry display case — Photo courtesy of Paneterie

Paneterie offers limited indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor tables are recommended, as you can enjoy your coffee and pastry while people watching the Clematis crowds and people running through the fountain.

The coffee is no joke, and there are options: locally roasted Oceana, espresso, machiatto, cappuccino and lattes. A variety of teas are also available. 

The cafe was brought to fruition by Thierry Beaud, partner at the neighboring Pistache Bistro and PB Catch over on the island. His vision of Paneterie was not only a place for people to grab delectable sweets and fresh loaves, but also one where people on the go could grab a freshly made sandwich during lunch.

So far, Paneterie is succeeding on both accounts, drawing rave reviews. 

Let's talk about the sandwiches. Favorites are the Italian (tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil and balsamic on baguette) and the smoked salmon (Swiss, lettuce, tomato, chopped egg, red onion and mayo on multigrain ciabatta).

Looking for something hot? Try a grilled panini, like the three cheese with emmenthal, mozzarella and brie.

Having a holiday party in the area? Let Paneterie cater for you. With two days' notice, the cafe can provide your party with food that will be talked about for months to come. Guests won't know what hit them when they bite down on one of Paneterie's macarons. 

The Clematis area of West Palm Beach has been starved for a French bakery cafe for awhile (outside of Saturdays, when the Green Market attracts some top French vendors). Start your day off right with a coffee and pastry from Paneterie, the area's best and brightest new cafe.