In the heart of Sarthe, a bar-restaurant that had been closed for seven long years suddenly found itself in the spotlight, capturing everyone’s wonder: an unexpected buyer has appeared to breathe new life into this once-vibrant place. But what an incredible series of events led to this true miracle? As we delve into this gripping investigation, let’s explore the behind-the-scenes of this remarkable revival to uncover the mysteries and players of this captivating story.
A village waiting since 2017
Good news for Lhomme (Sarthe): the bar-restaurant located across from the village church, named “La Renaissance,” is finally reopening its doors after a seven-year absence. Since its closure in 2017, the municipality has continuously sought a buyer for this business essential to local life. The search was long and fraught with challenges, but it ultimately succeeded thanks to Frédéric Louis-Lafont, an experienced restaurateur.
The journey of restaurateur Frédéric Louis-Lafont
Born 52 years ago in Lyon, the capital of French cuisine, Frédéric Louis-Lafont has vivid memories of weekends spent in the Monts du Lyonnais. Nothing seemed to predestine him for the restaurant business, but he was always fascinated by his grandmother’s cooking, famous for her homemade dishes.
Frédéric first attended a business school in Lyon before moving to Paris to work in printing. His career then took several turns, notably with the creation of his communication agency “Atchum” near the Hôtel-de-Ville in Paris. However, the arrival of digital pushed him to sell his company and shift towards the restaurant industry.
Transition to the restaurant business
After the Covid crisis, a 76-year-old friend, owner of the bistro-pizzeria “Le Mercure” in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, was looking for a buyer. Frédéric seized the opportunity and ran this bistro for three years, offering simple dishes like pork shoulder and homemade fries. Thanks to this career shift, he earned features in Télérama and drew the attention of François-Régis Gaudry from France Inter.
The opportunity in Lhomme
When Frédéric Louis-Lafont learned that “La Renaissance” was available in Lhomme, he did not hesitate to introduce himself to the town hall. His project was received positively, and the reopening of the restaurant is scheduled for Saturday, June 1, 2024.
A local and authentic culinary offer
The new restaurant, named “Chez Fred,” will emphasize local products and a simple but flavorful menu. Starters will include rillettes, egg mayonnaise, house salad, and a Sarthe plate. The main dishes will offer mussels with homemade fries, while the desserts will be provided by “Les Pâtisseries de Marinette.”
- Starters: rillettes, egg-mayonnaise, house salad, Sarthe plate
- Main dishes: mussels, homemade fries
- Desserts: pastries from Marinette
A dedicated team and careful decoration
Ingrid Guillet, a former employee at “La Bonne Franquette,” will be in charge of the service, bar, and kitchen assistance. The decoration of the restaurant has been entrusted to Christophe Lebeslour, an antique dealer in La Chartre-sur-le-Loir, who has skillfully transformed the space with taste and authenticity.
Hours and practical information
“Chez Fred” will be open from Thursday to Monday, from 10 AM to 11 PM, with closures on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Saturdays and Sundays, service will be continuous from 8 AM to 12 AM. Reservations are recommended at 02 43 46 10 65. The address is 12, rue du Val de Loir, Lhomme (Sarthe).
Source: actu.fr
