Jean Robert's Table to open this summer after brief delay

After much anticipation, famed chef Jean-Robert de Cavel plans to open his new family-style French bistro in downtown Cincinnati later this summer.  Jean-Robert's Table will be the chef's reemergence onto the Cincinnati dining scene after a falling out with the Wade family who partnered with de Cavel on his previous restaurant ventures.

The new restaurant is located in the space formerly occupied by Buddakan at 713 Vine Street (map).  What is different about this restaurant from de Cavel's previous ventures is that it is 100 percent in his control.

"I'm looking forward to having Jean-Robert back in the restaurant business doing what he loves to do, and that's cook," said Jason Price who will wear many hats at Jean-Robert's Table.  "It will be great to get the past behind everybody, and I am really happy that I get to be doing this with Jean-Robert."

The new restaurant is expected to seat about 80 to 90 people between the dining area and bar.  The team decided to push back the opening from June 1st to the later date due to some structural issues that de Cavel and the building owner wanted to address prior to opening.

"The space is in great proximity to Fountain Square and lots of businesses, there is plenty of parking available nearby, and other than the structural issues being addressed, the rest of the place was pretty much turn key," explained Price.

Jean-Robert's Table will be open Monday through Friday for lunch and dinner, and will also be open on Saturday nights.  Prices says that guests will be able to expect a very affordable, casual French bistro atmosphere that will be quite different from the feel of Pigall's, one of de Cavel's storied restaurants.

The new restaurant is expected to employ around 30 full and part-time employees.  More details surrounding the menu, prices and any opening celebrations are expected to be worked out as the time nears, but those interested can stay connected through the Facebook page for Jean-Robert's Table or by following the restaurant on Twitter @jrtable.

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