Fans of Vancouver's The French Table were saddened to learn this summer that the 39-year-old business was going to close and change ownership.
Now, The French Table's chef/owner Hervé Martin says the plans have changed and the restaurant has re-opened with him at the helm once again.
"It’s been a roller coaster,” Martin said in a press release. “I was fully prepared to retire and step away from the restaurant, but the circumstances changed quickly. Now, I’m eager to get back in the kitchen and welcome our guests back to The French Table.”
The change of course is attributed to "a sudden legal complication" causing the "sale to fall through."
In July, Martin explained that the new owner was expected to operate the business as Hermitage Bistro and that the restaurant would likely continue to reflect a French influence.
Martin can now carry on his rich legacy - and put off retirement for a bit longer - as The French Table officially reopened on Tuesday, October 8.
"I am deeply appreciative of our customers' understanding and the unwavering support of our incredible team, many of whom have been with me for more than 30 years. The commitment and loyalty of everyone involved is what makes this restaurant so special," said Martin.
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.
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).
Reservations are available by calling the restaurant at (604) 689-3237 or via The French Table's website.
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