This French-Inspired Cafe Hiding Deep In The Piney Woods Of East Texas Is An Unexpected Treasure

You don't have to travel overseas for a taste of Paris. RITUAL in Jacksonville, Texas is a French-style cafe serving up croissants, soups and salads, crème brulee, and other inspired eats in the most charming atmosphere.

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You probably wouldn't expect to find delicious, French-inspired cuisine deep in the East Texas Piney Woods, but Jacksonville's RITUAL offers exactly that.

This bright, airy space is modeled after traditional Parisian cafes, and the food is made with real, whole foods and high-quality ingredients: two core tenets of French cooking.

Open for brunch and lunch, the cafe offers quiche, avocado toast, and the most incredible deviled eggs you'll ever try (especially if you add the truffle oil drizzle).

If you're stopping by for lunch and feel like something light and refreshing, opt for one of the restaurant's signature salads. From Caesar to avocado and quinoa, there's one for everybody.

For those who prefer sandwiches, there are several from which to choose. Among them are chicken salad, egg salad, and grilled cheese. Get yours on a croissant for maximum French vibes!

Entrees are also available, but there is no set menu. See the mirror inside the restaurant for the current offerings.

Perhaps you'll want to pair your meal with a coffee or tea from the espresso bar. There are nine different hot teas to choose from, plus several coffee varieties and flavors (lattes and cold brews). The rose flavor sounds so interesting to me!

RITUAL also has a bar with lots of handcrafted cocktails. Bloody Mary, anyone?

Let's not forget about dessert! You'll see mouthwatering sweet treats such as crème brulee, warm peach pudding, and chocolate Antarctica mousse...

...plus an array of rotating selections, like this banana split ice cream cake. Talk about drool-worthy!

RITUAL is also an apothecary, wellness studio, and hotel. Visit the RITUAL website or RITUAL Facebook page for more information, including current hours of operation and a full menu.

Have you ever eaten at RITUAL in Jacksonville, Texas? If so, what did you order and how was it? Tell us in the comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article to learn about a nearby train ride in Texas that takes you on an unforgettable journey through the dense and beautiful Piney Woods landscape.