Bastille has a new look and location. While there are nods to the original location near the Alexandria waterfront, the fresh version has a modern feel and an inspired new menu. “It reflects what we’ve always wanted to do—incorporate our personal likes, our travels; it’s not just about ‘Frenchie’ food,” Michelle Poteaux tells us. We snapped the pastry chef, who serves as co-owner with her husband, Chef Christophe Poteaux. Loyal customers will celebrate that the chefs’ savory beignets made it onto the new menu—this time flavored with escargot.
Find the new spot (606 N Fayette St) near the Braddock Road Metro station on the ground floor of The Asher apartment complex, which Alexandria Mayor William D. Euille calls home. Adorning the walls are black-and-white photos of Cristophe’s family, including one of his grandfather, who was also in the food business. See if you can identify the 1940s photo on your first visit. Fans of the original Bastille can breathe easy knowing it’s still in the Poteaux family. A more casual concept—Bistrot Royal—opened Thursday.
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