Barbouzard, D.C.’s latest culinary hotspot, is set to open its doors on July 29. Located at the bustling intersection of 17th and K Street NW, this French-grounded destination aims to blend sophistication with a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
The name ‘Barbouzard,’ translating to ‘secret agent’ in French, encapsulates the restaurant’s spirit of intrigue and adventure. Co-owner Nasr El Hage describes the concept as rooted in the elegance of the Riviera, reflecting the broader Mediterranean coast’s allure.
The restaurant features a menu crafted by prominent French American chef Cedric Maupillier, who gained recognition for his now-closed restaurant, Convivial. El Hage, who has a background in real estate and Lebanese heritage, partnered with fellow investors Nellie Elana Gebrail and Dany Abi-Najm for this anticipated establishment, which spans 6,493 square feet.
El Hage and Maupillier’s partnership sprouted from a serendipitous meeting one year prior to the restaurant’s preview party on Bastille Day. Upon hearing El Hage’s vision of a Riviera-inspired dining experience, Maupillier felt an instant connection and decided to join forces.
Barbouzard aspires to be more than just another high-end French restaurant in D.C.; it aims to create a unique fusion of food, ambiance, and social engagement. El Hage emphasized the desire for the restaurant to remain open late on weekends to continue the celebratory vibe post-dinner, providing patrons the opportunity to enjoy the space at various times throughout the night.
The menu at Barbouzard draws upon Maupillier’s South of France upbringing and education. Guests can expect dishes influenced not just by the Riviera but also by sun-soaked Mediterranean locales adorned with olive trees, thyme, rosemary, and lavender.
Signature dishes include grilled fish, fresh seafood, a selection of vegetable plates, and various meats. Noteworthy highlights on the menu feature Bouillabaisse Marseillaise, Riviera-style dover sole, vegan Bolognese, and Maupillier’s personal favorite: escargot.
In addition to traditional items, patrons can indulge in luxurious offerings such as foie gras “opera,” caviar service, and exquisite shellfish towers priced at $110 for Le Petit and $240 for Le Grand, which includes a variety of fresh shellfish.
The bar at Barbouzard showcases an array of French spirits, aperitifs, and house-infused cocktails, presenting options such as the Caviar Martini and a light twist on the classic Negroni. The extensive wine list boasts over 400 selections, emphasizing French coastal regions that narrate the stories of the sea.
Redesigning the former Kellari Taverna space, Barbouzard embodies the luxurious essence of France’s coastal regions through its decor. The venue features light oak, marble surfaces, hand-blown glass chandeliers, and gilded accents, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests.
Various booths, alcoves, and bar areas encourage lively social interaction, while a leafy veranda offers an outdoor retreat. Central to the restaurant’s concept is a high-end Funktion-One sound system, a rarity in dining venues, which will complement the lively ambiance.
Barbouzard has included a dedicated DJ booth and stage, promising a variety of entertainment throughout the week. Guests can enjoy live performances, including piano, saxophone, guitar, and violin, while DJs will spice up the atmosphere from Thursday to Saturday nights.
El Hage’s vision for Barbouzard is clear: he wants guests to feel exhilarated and connected through the experience. Maupillier echoes this sentiment, aiming to present ‘l’art de vivre’—the art of living—on a daily basis at Barbouzard.
As the opening day approaches, the excitement surrounding Barbouzard continues to build, providing another reason for D.C. residents and visitors alike to explore the culinary scene further. With a focus on high-quality French cuisine, engaging nightlife, and a commitment to creating memorable experiences, Barbouzard is poised to become a staple in the vibrant D.C. dining landscape.
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