A beloved French restaurant near Findlay Market is closing is doors after nearly 10 years in business. French Crust Cafe and Bistro announced plans to shut down, according to a post on social media. The dining room was packed on Friday as loyal customers and guests came in to savor their final French flavors. “I’m so sad it’s closing, there’s nothing like it,” Rebecca Sykes said as she ordered her favorite dishes. Founded by the late renowned chef Jean-Robert de Cavel, the restaurant first opened as a small cafe on Vine Street in 2013 before de Cavel expanded it into its full cafe and bistro at Findlay Market in 2016. Matthieu Charbonneau, director of operations for the de Cavel group, said the chef’s vision remains alive with every memory and meal. “French crust was a quintessential French bistro,” Charbonneau said. “Utilizing great local products and ingredients as well as giving wonderful service throughout the years.” Though owner Annette de Cavel stated ‘this was not an easy decision’ on social media, Charbonneau said the business faced a number of challenges, particularly from the COVID-19 pandemic. “The foot traffic isn’t what we wanted, but we made it work as long as we could,” he said. Charbonneau didn’t rule out a potential comeback for the popular cafe. “I still think there could be a great home for a concept like this a few years down the road,” Charbonneau said. Final meals will be served on Sunday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.Annette de Cavel said they will continue operations at Le Bar à Boeuf in East Walnut Hills.
CINCINNATI —
A beloved French restaurant near Findlay Market is closing is doors after nearly 10 years in business.
French Crust Cafe and Bistro announced plans to shut down, according to a post on social media.
The dining room was packed on Friday as loyal customers and guests came in to savor their final French flavors.
“I’m so sad it’s closing, there’s nothing like it,” Rebecca Sykes said as she ordered her favorite dishes.
Founded by the late renowned chef Jean-Robert de Cavel, the restaurant first opened as a small cafe on Vine Street in 2013 before de Cavel expanded it into its full cafe and bistro at Findlay Market in 2016.
Matthieu Charbonneau, director of operations for the de Cavel group, said the chef’s vision remains alive with every memory and meal.
“French crust was a quintessential French bistro,” Charbonneau said. “Utilizing great local products and ingredients as well as giving wonderful service throughout the years.”
Though owner Annette de Cavel stated ‘this was not an easy decision’ on social media, Charbonneau said the business faced a number of challenges, particularly from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The foot traffic isn’t what we wanted, but we made it work as long as we could,” he said.
Charbonneau didn’t rule out a potential comeback for the popular cafe.
“I still think there could be a great home for a concept like this a few years down the road,” Charbonneau said.
Final meals will be served on Sunday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Annette de Cavel said they will continue operations at Le Bar à Boeuf in East Walnut Hills.
Dining and Cooking