Alas, we were a little too late, but this did not deter us from getting a treat. Everything looked utterly delectable, but we finally decided on a huge strawberry-filled macaron, which burst with even more flavor after each bite. I will be a return customer, that's for sure!

El peque is the little sister of the SCOOTER and BAZAAR shops, stocking many Frenchy chic labels at significantly discounted prices. Sometimes the merchandise destined for the regular shops arrives late, and so, is sold directly in El peque. The stock tends to rotate every few weeks, so off-the-chart fashion fiends tend to check more than often. I try to come by every once in a while, and always, ALWAYS come away with something, like a great Vanessa Bruno belt or checkered Isabel Marant Etoile button-up top. Virginia, the salesgirl, is helpful but non-intrusive. As always: try before you buy, because there are no returns, but why would that happen, anyway?

It's called Mott. More playful than neighboring Pez, Oliphant, and Benny Room put together, Mott features flirty feminine frocks that would make Zooey Deschanel swoon. The back room is dedicated to markdowns, so it's worth looking around a bit for finding a steal.

Long before I found out that it was cited in Vogue, I was already afraid of the snob aura. With no good reason though, as the attendant seemed down-to-earth. More French chic like Tara Jarmon, Madame à Paris, Bellerose (Belgian) shoes by Mellow Yellow, and also the most precious clothing for that discerning tot, designed by one of the shop owners.

The Spanish-language novels and poetry dominate the entrance, while the linguistics books are in the back, with all manners of grammar texts, exam preps, histories, and easy readers. Downstairs, the selection is mostly English, French, and German. Even if only speak one of the available languages, it'll be hard to pry yourself from this place.

After many walk-bys, I finally dared to enter the store and admire the many beautiful items up close, with very gentle music playing in the background: American Vintage, Les Prairies de Paris, Aloe, Humanoid, to name a few. The attendants are quite attentive without being nosy; they place the items in the cabins for you and leave you alone to peruse. Quite difficult to tear yourself away, but looking in your pocketbook, you know you must. At least there are some worthwhile style ideas.