Get ready for a taste of Parisian luxury, D.C.! After nearly 30 years of vacancy, the historic Federal-American National Bank Building is experiencing a glamorous revival. This iconic landmark is set to transform into a culinary destination unlike any other, spearheaded by the renowned New York-based restaurant group, The Group NYC.
The crown jewel of this project is undoubtedly La Grande Boucherie, a French brasserie and steakhouse opening its doors on April 18th, 2024. This isn't just any brasserie, though. Having established itself as a force of elegance in New York, Chicago, and soon Miami, La Grande Boucherie boasts a reputation for exceptional design and an unwavering commitment to classic French cuisine.
A Feast for the Eyes and the Soul
Stepping into La Grande Boucherie won't be just a dining experience; it will be a journey to a bygone era. The 14,000-square-foot space is meticulously designed to evoke the atmosphere of a Parisian square during the Belle Époque era. Soaring ceilings adorned with intricate details reminiscent of Versailles will leave you breathless. A centerpiece fountain, sourced from a private collector in the south of France, adds a touch of whimsy with its 400-pound cast bronze statue towering 15 feet tall.
But the true showstopper might be the 20-foot pewter bar, handcrafted in France using a 200-year-old mold. This dedication to authenticity extends to every corner of the restaurant, seamlessly blending the new with the meticulously restored grandeur of the historic building.
A Culinary Journey to France
Executive Chef Maxime Kien has curated a menu that celebrates the soul of French brasserie cuisine. Think perfectly executed classics like escargots, steak tartare, and the ever-satisfying croque monsieur. Living up to its name ("boucherie" translates to "butchery"), the menu proudly features an extensive selection of steaks, dry-aged in-house for maximum flavor. Initially open for dinner service, lunch will be launched soon after, offering a more casual option to experience the Parisian flair.
Looking beyond the classics, Stefkov, the founder of The Group NYC, hints at an exciting future for the menu. He envisions introducing "almost forgotten" regional French dishes, perhaps even featuring a documentary series that captures the heart of these culinary traditions – think charming French villages and grandmothers preserving dishes on the brink of extinction.
The beverage program doesn't disappoint either. The wine list leans heavily towards French varietals, highlighting lesser-known grapes like tannat and mondeuse that offer exceptional value. Absinthe fountains and classic cocktails add a touch of Parisian nightlife to the bar menu, further enhanced by a collaboration with D.C.'s very own LP O'Brien, winner of the Netflix series "Drink Masters."
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A Multi-Concept Destination
La Grande Boucherie is just the first course in this culinary adventure. The Group NYC has even bigger plans for the Federal-American National Bank Building.
Olio é Piu, their Italian trattoria concept, is slated to open by the end of May, offering a taste of Italy with its antipasti, salads, house-made pastas, and fresh grilled fish. Fall will witness the arrival of a high-end sushi omakase counter, an intimate space with only 10-12 seats, each a canvas for the artistry of a yet-to-be-announced chef.
This commitment to finding the perfect chef and building the restaurant around their expertise highlights The Group NYC's dedication to personalized culinary experiences.
A Legacy Reborn
The transformation of the Federal-American National Bank Building transcends mere restaurants. It's a testament to the enduring power of history and the transformative magic of exquisite design and exceptional cuisine. La Grande Boucherie, along with its upcoming companions, promises to be not just a place to dine, but a portal to another time and place, offering a taste of Parisian grandeur right in the heart of D.C.