Nothing comes from a box at new French cafe, bakery in Mundelein

Claude Bouteille, a native of France, is bringing a little bit of Paris to Mundelein.

Bouteille, a longtime French chef, recently opened Taste of Paris Bakery & Cafe at 161 N. Seymour Ave. The traditional French cafe and bakery, open for breakfast and lunch, serves an array of dishes, all made from scratch.

Traditional French onion soup and croque monsieur and quiche have been going over well, said the owner's son, Christophe Bouteille. Other highlights include the pesto chicken wrap on a tomato tortilla and tuna on a Parisian croissant, selling for $6.75 each.

"The traditional French croissants have been going over well," said Christophe, 23.

The new cafe has come up with a unique arrangement in running the business. The owners are working with the owners of Parma John's, an 18-month-old Italian restaurant that operates at the same location during the evening. "It's Paris by day and Italy by night," Christophe said.

He added that in this economy, the two owners are trying to help each other out.

The eatery seats 42 people inside. An outdoor cafe, which will seat another 24, is under construction.

Claude Bouteille, 52, immigrated here when he was 21. Living in Glencoe at the time, he ran LeParis Bakery in Lake Forest for 10 years. He has focused solely on catering for the past 18 years. Christophe said he continues to do catering while running the new Mundelein business.

Christophe recently graduated from Drury University with a degree in architecture. He has been assisting in the business and designed all the logos, menus and graphics. His two sisters also assist in the operation.

"It's all about great food and good service," said Christophe, a resident of Mundelein.

Taste of Paris is open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays. For more, call (847) 949-9991.

• Kim Mikus covers small business. She welcomes comments at (847) 427-4567.