In news that is certain to thrill the hearts and stomachs of DMV Francophiles, a popular New York based bakery is planning to bring the flavors of Paris to Alexandria. Maman Coffee Baking Kitchen has filed paperwork to open a new storefront in Old Town, reports local media outlet ALXNow.
Locals will undoubtedly be excited to once again see signs of life at 701 King Street, a space that has sat vacant since Foxtrot closed there in April of 2024. Described on the special use permit filed with the city of Alexandria’s Department of Planning and Zoning as “a cafe, bakery, restaurant, and accessory event space”, Maman’s new home will provide the concept with 3,897 square feet of space for greeting customers.
Speaking of customers, Maman estimates it will be able to seat 30 visitors at a time inside. Renderings attached to the special use permit seem to suggest it is likely the cafe will offer sidewalk seating as well. Maman expects to serve up to 200 hungry Alexandrians daily.
It is still too early in development to prognosticate an opening timeline with any degree of accuracy. However, August 28 will be the last chance for public comment on the special use permit, making way for the next stage of development.
If approved, Maman will invite visitors to walk off of King Street directly into a quaint Parisian cafe. The cafe works hard to cultivate a unique and beautiful dining experience; the website explains: “greeted by the scent of culinary splendor that wafts through the space, our guests step into an experience that engages all of the senses: rustic décor at every turn, the aroma and comfort of cuisines inspired by family traditions, and the highest quality ingredients.”
