Mon Ami Gabi, the popular French bistro in Bethesda, has reopened following an extensive ten-month renovation that has significantly enhanced its dining space and offerings. Located at 7239 Woodmont Ave., the restaurant first launched back in 2002 and has now added over 1,700 square feet to its already spacious layout of 5,800 square feet.
The renovation has reimagined the dining room, featuring a larger, centrally located bar that has doubled in size. Mark Sotelino, a partner of Lettuce Entertain You, the Chicago-based parent company of Mon Ami Gabi, noted that the goal was to attract a younger crowd by creating a vibrant bar scene and introducing a new cocktail menu. A smaller bar in the back has also been developed for private events, which can accommodate 10 to 80 guests.
The reinvented Mon Ami Gabi now seats 260 patrons, including two outdoor patios: one seats 30 and the other is a covered, heated terrace that can host 67 diners in any season. Significant upgrades were made to the restaurant’s HVAC and plumbing systems, while the aesthetic has been curated to maintain the charm of a classic Parisian bistro, adorned with deep forest green and antique bronze tones, white tile, and an array of lively decor.
Head chef Andrew Fleischauer has brought his culinary expertise to the restaurant since 2008, having previously trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and worked at several prestigious kitchens. Among the highlights on the redesigned menu is a martini section, which features unique cocktails like the Vesper, served alongside fresh crudités.
Diners are encouraged to share a variety of enticing small plates. The menu includes crispy, hand-cut french fries, a smooth chicken liver mousse infused with brandy, delightful steamed mussels, and a rich baked brie topped with apricot jam and walnuts. The mussels are particularly praised for their depth of flavor, thanks to a method that combines cream with leeks, shallots, and a flavorful broth.
The duck leg confit is a standout dish, celebrated for its tender meat after a prolonged braise in duck fat and its crisp skin, paired with a delightful northern bean and Swiss chard stew. However, the restaurant’s cooking has seen some inconsistencies. On one occasion, an order of frisée salad with overcooked lardons resulted in a diner needing a dental crown, which is reflective of the occasional lapses in kitchen technique.
Another visit highlighted similar issues with overcooked lardons served alongside roast chicken, which, though flavorful, came out dry and uninviting. Despite these missteps, Mon Ami Gabi’s signature steak frites provides a reliable choice, alongside the impressive 22-ounce bone-in rib-eye topped with aromatic caramelized shallots and chives.
A particular favorite among dishes is the skate wing, which is expertly prepared with a crispy coating and served with a lemony brown butter sauce, balancing richness and acidity. Desserts maintain the French bistro theme, with satisfying options like crème brûlée and chocolate mousse, with the tarte tatin of baked apples being a recommended choice over the less impressive banana foster crepes.
Service at Mon Ami Gabi stands out, with knowledgeable staff members going the extra mile to enhance the dining experience. However, a 3.5% surcharge added to bills has raised eyebrows among customers. The charge, described as a means to offset rising costs, is not a gratuity for staff but is said to support ongoing compensation and benefits for team members.
As diners assess this additional charge, they may appreciate the quality of food and service that Mon Ami Gabi continues to deliver, despite any criticisms. The charm of the renovated restaurant, combined with a diverse array of menu options, showcases the establishment’s dedication to providing a memorable French dining experience in Bethesda.
Mon Ami Gabi remains committed to its roots while adapting to the needs of a changing clientele and offers a menu filled with classics that appeal to a broad audience. Reservations and more details are available at their website, where potential guests can explore the full dining experience awaiting them.
image source from：bethesdamagazine
