I am truly nuts about Mokonuts.

During my recent trip to Paris I just had to try this exciting modern french and Middle Eastern influenced restaurant.

Moko Hirayama and Omar Koreitem are the creative duo that have put Mokonuts on the culinary map.

During their international jaunts, the couple met in London.

Omar was born in Lebanon, raised in Paris and worked at Daniel in New York City.

Moko was born in Japan, lived in San Francisco and New York City.

A lawyer by trade, Moko was intrigued by pastry making and went to work at Ladurée in London, baking early in the morning before going off to her day job.

The talented couple eventually made their way to Paris.

Early on a recent Monday morning, we walked the 20 minutes from our apartment in the Marais to Mokonuts, located in the Bastille district (11th Arr.)

The diminutive restaurant is located on a narrow street in an unassuming neighborhood…no wonder it is so hard to get a reservation.

We decided to try for breakfast since our time was limited.

We all chose the eggs with sourdough waffle and chorizo ($10.20).

The dish was fantastic.

The espresso was perfection and we enjoyed our second cup with the homemade cake du jour ($5).

Desserts are all made in-house.

Moko’s cookies are the star attraction.

She bakes them all day long to ensure that they are soft and warm when you take your first bite.

Mokonuts is as charming as its’ owner.

When in Paris you must treat yourself to breakfast, lunch or a sweet treat at Mokonuts.

Restaurant Mokonuts 5, rue Saint-Bernard, Paris, France 75011. Open 8:45am-6pm Monday-Friday.