Sometimes you need a bite to tide you over between meals. If you’re away from home, raiding the snack pantry isn’t an option. But you don’t have to settle for fast food if hunger strikes while you’re on the run. A snack stop at these neighborhood spots rewards you with a tastier treat – and a bit more atmosphere.

And don’t worry about disappointing a wait person with your meager order – counter service makes even a $1 tab respectable.

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La Francaise

Fresh baked pastries, breads, quiche, Danish pastries and croissants are among the French fare offered by this small, tucked-away bakery and café. It has a quiet charm, and the added bonus of no waiting in line.

La Francaise has two locations: 6333 E. Mockingbird at Abrams (next to Tom Thumb), 823-8102; and 105 Lake Highlands Plaza, at Kingsley and Audelia, 341-6365. Both locations are open weekdays from 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Henk’s European Deli

This authentic German deli is hidden one block from Northwest Highway at 5811 Blackwell, behind Sterling Jewelers.

The bakery, known as Black Forest Bakery, is more famous for its fine cakes and other sweet temptations. But other savory items shouldn’t be overlooked: German Landjaeger Sausage (German-style beef jerky) goes for less than $1 a strip. German Bratwurst or Polish sausage on a bun is $3.50 with chips and pickles. Construction crews order hard rolls from the bakery, then cruise the deli counter for meats and cheese to stuff into a sandwich.

German-style cheese and fruit pastries are hard to pass up. Try the apple strudel and streusel. Henk’s is open Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Call 987-9090 for information.

Whole Foods Cafes and Delis

These neighborhood spots serve up food that’s good for you, in addition to tasting good. Discriminating palates and the health conscious from throughout Dallas flock to our two neighborhood Whole Foods stores.

The store’s smoothies pack an intensely fruity flavor since they aren’t watered down with ice. The Southwest meets the Middle East with the Aram sandwiches (turkey, cheddar, pico de gallo, sprouts, and garlic cream cheese spread on bread).

A broccoli cheddar Knish (a savory filled puffed pastry) can be heated in two minutes. The global menu also includes empanadas, tamales and egg rolls.

Whole Foods’ locations are: 2218 Greenville at Belmont, 828-0052; and at Skillman and Kingsley, 341-5445.