Jean-Robert's Table to bring relaxed French cuisine to downtown Cincinnati

Published Oct. 20, 2009 at 12:00 a.m.
Jean-Robert de Cavel has been ruling Cincinnati's French cuisine scene for well over a decade now. 

De Cavel made his way into the spotlight in 1993 as chef de cuisine of the legendary Maisonette restaurant, helping the establishment earn a record 41 consecutive five-star awards from Mobil Travel Guide.

He left the Maisonette to open his own French restaurant, Jean-Robert at Pigall's in downtown Cincinnati, and has since spearheaded a number of other well-known eateries around town including a second downtown restaurant, JeanRo Bistro, Lavomatic in Over-the-Rhine, and Greenup Cafe in Covington, where De Cavel lives with his family.

Earlier this year De Cavel parted ways with his partners in those restaurants, drawing wild speculation about what he would do next.

Those questions have been left unanswered until now as the famous chef has chosen the former Buddakhan space at 713 Vine Street (map) in downtown Cincinnati to open Jean-Robert's Table.

At Jean-Robert's Table, De Cavel hopes to create a more affordable atmosphere than the high-end experience at Pigall's, with the average check expected to be around $30.  The French chef is also placing an importance on locally grown food, in addition to capitalizing on his famous interpretations of classic French dishes. 

De Cavel plans to open up within eight weeks after some light interior renovation work and will retain the front bar area.  Once complete, the restaurant will seat around 80 people. 

Jean-Robert's Table comes on the heels of the reopening of Hamburger Mary's, and the opening Mayberry nearby. 

Writer: Randy A. Simes
Photography by Scott Beseler
Stay connected by following Randy on Twitter @SoapboxRandy


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