restaurant of the month - january 2008

CHEZ JACQUES

Experience a little bit of Paris without leaving home

CHEZ JACQUES, a new and enlarged version of one of Milwaukee’s favorite restaurants, serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner to give you a taste of Paris… without the jet lag.

The location at 1022 S. First St. is just a block east of the smaller location where owner and chef Jacques Chaumet operated his first restaurant, Jacques French Cafe.

A native of Montpellier in the south of France, Jacques came to the U.S. in 1993 and started Chez Jacques in 2001. He closed that restaurant last year and began work on the building at S. First St.

Stroll through the doors and you’ll be greeted with the ambiance of a French country inn. Many hours went into giving this restaurant’s new interior an Old World patina. Chez Jacques is open Tuesday through Sunday, with hours from 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Like both rural and urban restaurants in France, Jacques offers cuisine that uses the freshest ingredients, prepared with a distinctive flair.  We can’t think of a better way to start the day than with breakfast items such as fresh baked croissants, a Parisian breakfast (croissant, orange juice and coffee), French (what else) toast and quiche (either Lorraine or vegetable) with fruit. Special omelettes come with potatoes and toast.

Luncheon specials range from a variety of crepes – chicken curry, smoked salmon, caramelized applies and banana Nutella – to distinctively French salads, sandwiches and gourmet plates.

Appetizers on the dinner menu include escargot, and entrees range from veal medallions to sea scallops. Roasted duck and a vegetarian pasta add to the variety. Gourmet plates also are great choices when paired with a glass of wine. Choices include the Jacques’ Special, with Foie Gras, pate, cheese, salad, baguette and cornichons.

Beer, wines, and cocktails are available. The staff may suggest an aperitif such as a Kir Royal or Dubonnet. Of course, your favorite espresso drink is available here. And any drink is made even better when paired with one of the chef’s delectable desserts. Crème Brulee or Mousse au Chocolat are just two of the choices.

Stop in at Chez Jacques  at 7 p.m. April 6 and 27  to hear romantic French folk tunes presented by Richard Soucie.

In a city that takes pride in ethnic restaurants that look and feel like counterparts in the old countries, Chez Jacques is among the most authentic. Private parties are welcome. Catering is available, as are take-outs and local delivery, if you call 672-1040 in advance.