Chef Michael Farrell Of Le Meritage To Launch " Bistreaux, " A New Restaurant Concept In The French Quarter

In September Chef Michael Farrell of Le Meritage fame will unveil Bistreaux, a new culinary venture serving inspired comfort foods with a comprehensive wine bar offering a changing menu of boutique wines by the glass, creative cocktails and artisanal beers in a casual, energetic setting with a focus on live music.

Bistreaux will be located adjacent to Le Meritage in the Maison Dupuy Hotel, 1001 Toulouse Street

"This will be a fun place to hang out with your friends," Farrell said. "Pianist Paul Longstreth-who frequently performs with guys like Kermit Ruffins, Trombone Shorty, Charles Neville, Bob French, John Boutt� and Irvin Mayfield, to name just a few-will be our resident musician. The food at The Bistreaux will be a unique combination of familiar comfort foods and flavors that reflect the refined New Orleans palate. I am going to place a strong emphasis on fresh, seasonal, Louisiana ingredients.

"All of this is also going to be easy on the wallet, too" he said.

The menu at Bistreaux will feature familiar dishes executed in unique, exciting ways. Selections will include Gulf Oysters on the Half Shell served with shaved horseradish and house-made mignonette and cocktail sauces; Mac & Cheese made with Monterey Jack, smoked gouda and Parmesan cheeses and drizzled with truffle oil; miniature Lump Crab Tacos with guacamole and fresh corn salsa; a Pressed Cochon de Lait Sandwich with pickles and Provolone on ciabbatta; a Goat Cheese and Beet Salad with fresh greens and beets, craisins, sunflower seeds, goat cheese and a citrus basil vinaigrette; creamy Red Beans & Rice with andouille; and a Beef Short Rib Po-Boy with garlic aioli and basil gremolata on French bread.

Chef Farrell will round out the menu with house-made pizza and dessert offerings.