There’s a change at BOUCHE: chef Nicolas Borzee has returned to France, and his replacement is Michel Réthoré. According to Scoop, he is fresh from France. He was recently at Restaurant Le Cygory in Montpellier, and when he was executive chef of Domaine de la Tortiniere in Veigné, he earned the restaurant a Michelin star. Look for changes in a month or so (Réthoré just started Sunday). As much as I wanted to, I never quite took a shine to Borzee’s menu, but very much like the intimate atmosphere and late-night vibe of the place. Looking forward to tasting Réthoré’s menu (and hope to add Bouche to my late-night dining app). 603 Bush St. at Stockton, 415-956-0396.
I know, we can all issue a collective “wah!” with this news: general manager Vinny Eng is leaving ~BAR TARTINE~ in mid-January. He started as a runner five years ago and worked his way up to GM and the outstanding “beverage co-curator” he is today. He really is a big part of the wonderful, hospitable feeling that prevails at Bar Tartine. I know the team there and all his loyal customers are going to be missing his warm spirit and smile at the restaurant, let alone his wicked pairings. He’s excited to “ease up” in the new year and enjoy some downtime, and is looking forward to spending some time with his family. Best wishes and thank you for all your years of such dedicated service, Vinny!
The upstairs at Bouche; photo courtesy of Bouche via Yelp.
