UPDATE OCT. 8, 2024: The French Table has re-opened as of today and remains under the leadership of chef/owner Hervé Martin. The deal to sell the business was not completed. Read more HERE. Original article follows.
After a dozen years of operating The French Table, Vancouver chef Hervé Martin is set to retire soon, bringing an end to a storied run in the local restaurant scene.
Martin will step down at the end of September "due to age and health reasons," according to a press release issued July 16.
The French Table at 3916 Main St was Martin's follow-up to his previous restaurant venture, Hermitage on Robson, which shut down in 2010 when the building was torn down.
However, Martin first came to Canada in 1982, leaving his native France to carry on a career that began in his teen years as an apprentice at a one-star Michelin restaurant in Beaune, Burgundy and that segued into a career in hotels.
Martin came to Vancouver in 1985 to open the Pan Pacific and the Convention Centre at Canada Place. He opened Hermitage on Robson in 1987.
The French Table has long been a staple bistro in Vancouver, serving up comforting classics like fondue, coq au vin, and moules frites alongside slightly more adventurous options, like Sweetbreads Grenobloise (it's calf pancreas).
“It has been an honour to serve the Vancouver community and share my passion for French cuisine. I am immensely grateful for the support and memories created over the years,” said Chef Martin in the press release.
Martin will remain in his leadership role through the end of September, at which point the restaurant is set to change hands.
The new owner is expected to operate the business as Hermitage Bistro and the restaurant will likely continue to reflect a French influence, however, further details have not been shared yet about the project.
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