2. New concepts pop up
Numerous French bistros opened to no shortage of fanfare this summer. Chef Michael Mina opened Petit Margeaux (a patisserie) in June followed by Margeaux Brasserie (a full-service restaurant) in July at the Waldorf Astoria in Chicago. It’s a “tribute to Paris in the 1920s,” per general manager Jose Gonzalez. Also in Chicago, upscale French concept Pearl Brasserie debuted this month. Menu items include French classics like foie gras three ways and the French 75 cocktail (made from gin, Champagne, lemon juice and sugar). Speaking of, French 75—a new concept by restaurateur Frank Bonanno—opened in Denver in July. The casual French bistro menus steak frites, escargots and other traditional bistro plates.