Rating: 4/5
Falls Church City is home to many popular community vendors, with everything from record stores to coffee shops and even a farmers market. Joining the ranks of its popular businesses on September 26th is Godfrey’s, a Parisian-style bakery and cafe that occupies that large brick meeting house building along West Broad Street in downtown Falls Church.
Walking into Godfrey’s feels like entering the heart of a romantic comedy. The upbeat jazz music combined with the enticing smell of freshly baked bread transports customers to the streets of Paris. The potted plants that decorate every table, along with the natural lighting create a cozy, rustic ambiance.
The interior of the cafe provides a comfortable atmosphere, combining soft couches and coffee tables with wooden tables and chairs, as well as an old-fashioned fireplace. Dog-friendly patio seating is also available, where pleasant music and elevated tables and chairs make for a dressed up dining experience outside, contrasting the cafe’s casual interior.
In addition to its aesthetically-pleasing decor, the employees were both cheerful and accommodating, addressing me by name and demonstrating patience as I decided what to order.
Another advantage of Godfrey’s relaxed setting is the convenience, as they give customers the option between take out and dining in and accept contactless payment as well as cash. The cafe also boasts a solid to-go option, packaging their baked goods in cute, branded boxes, complete with the same charm present throughout the cafe.
Most importantly, the menu provides a diverse and delicious selection. Godfrey’s beautiful pastries not only look immaculate, but the in-house bakery’s attention to detail is obvious in the taste of each delicacy as well.
The honey glaze on the chocolate chip muffin blended smoothly with the rich chocolate and cake-like taste of the muffin, while the raspberry-cream cheese danish’s honey drizzle complimented the rich cream cheese and buttery pastry perfectly, making it well worth $5.75. Equally delicious was their Tonka Tart, a rich, chocolatey dessert layered with brownie, fudge, and a thin chocolate glaze. Satisfying but not overpowering, the Tonka Tart is a must-order for any chocolate-lover.
In terms of entrees, Godfrey’s never fails to deliver beautifully plated and delicious meals to its customers. The panzanella caprese salad was fresh and flavorful, with a variety of vegetables and a tart balsamic dressing reminiscent of summer. While it was certainly delicious, however, its hefty price of $14 made me feel like there could be more added to it. For customers seeking a heartier meal, Godfrey’s offers a variety of sandwiches as well as pizzas. The cafe also offers large, though expensive, charcuterie boards, providing a rich selection of French cheeses, meats, and fresh breads ranging from $45-$50 in price.
Godfrey’s beverage menu presents a variety of refreshing options to accompany their delectable foods. Even their standard teas and coffee drinks are outstanding; the cortado is a perfect concoction of espresso and steamed milk that will guarantee a burst of energy for only $4.50.
For tea lovers, I highly recommend the $5.50 London Fog, whose special ingredient of honey makes for a deliciously creamy and sweet hot treat. They also offer original twists on classic drinks, such as their fresh fruit sparkler or their mocha made with house chocolate ganache.
Although Godfrey’s prices might exceed an average high schooler’s budget, with items ranging from five dollars to $50, it is an optimal spot for local Pinterest-worthy hangouts. Whether it’s a birthday brunch or even just a casual coffee with friends, if you’re looking for a taste of Europe without the travel costs, head over to Godfrey’s for an authentic and charming local experience.
