Bastille Day in Old Town

Be advised, Francophiles: Bastille Day quickly approaches! This storied French National Holiday, commemorating the 18th Century storming of the Bastille, is officially celebrated on July 14th.

Leading the D.C. area festivities, the French Embassy will host its traditional charity event on July 16th promising a buffet dinner created by over 20 local chefs, music, dancing and a silent auction. Two popular Old Town restaurants,  and , will contribute their own, French inspired culinary delights. 

Bastille's Executive Chefs and owners, Christophe and Michelle Poteaux have participated in the Embassy extravaganza for the past several years. Inspired by their recent trip to the South of France and Barcelona, the couple plan to prepare a grilled squid escabeche served with tabouleh and Spanish chorizo as Bastille's contribution to the buffet.

Christophe describes the Embassy event as a fun and low-key way to expose Bastille to a new clientele, while also serving regular customers. He and his wife Michelle always celebrate Bastille Day by uncorking a bottle of wine–a great commemorative indulgence.

This year marks La Bergerie's first-time participation in the event. Executive Chef Sylvain Tonello will whip up tuna nicoise and a variety of canapes with a focus on local and organic products. Tonello says that taking part in the event will allow his team to be a part of the French tradition and celebrations, while also giving back to the community. 

In addition to Bastille and La Bergerie, other restaurants that will be presenting food include Belga Café, Citronelle, CityZen, The Ritz-Carlton and many other enviable kitchens! 

All proceeds from the event will go to the non-profit Comité Tricolore, dedicated to helping people in need within the D.C. area's Franco-American community.