Michelin-recommended French restaurant is closing after four years

A popular French restaurant that opened during the Pandemic is saying au revoir.

Located in Little Italy, Pompette burst onto the scene four years ago to much fanfare. The restaurant even snagged a spot in the 2022 Michelin Guide, praised for “Chef/co-owner Martine Bauer’s menu, a treasure trove of French dishes dolled up with a contemporary flair.”

Known for its killer menu blending global influences with French cuisine, Pompette reflects the teamโ€™s diverse roots, stretching from Mauritius to Colombia and embracing local flavours. Their stellar cocktail program and a wine list boasting over 350 global selections perfectly complement the ever-evolving menu. Diners are treated to top-notch cheese, meat and pasta dishes, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

But it’s not all bad news for Pompette fans. According to co-owner Jonathan Bauer, there are good things on the horizon.

“We are excited to announce that Pompette will be undergoing a transformation,” Bauer told us in an email. “We will be closing on August 3rd to reopen around August 10th with a fresh new direction, focusing on a simpler, more accessible menu featuring Franco-Italian cuisine and an enhanced wine experience.”

And it certainly wonโ€™t be hard to imagine that this new experience will be fantastic. Alongside Restaurant Pompette, the team has opened the lauded Bar Pompette and, just last year, Bakery Pompetteโ€”a treasure trove of freshly baked sourdough bread and baguettes, and savoury danishes like the tarte flambรฉe.

Bauer who hails from Mauritius, found herself in Paris before settling in Toronto. “Maxime is the best bartender, Jonathan the best sommelier and I myself worked for the Prime Minister of France,” Bauer told us in 2023 just after the opening of Bakery Pompette.”

Guests still have time to savor Pompette’s exquisite duck Magret, Nova Scotia scallops crudo and flambรฉ banoffee sphere. The restaurant’s final service will be on Saturday, August 3.

Stay tuned to Restaurant Pompetteโ€™s Instagram feed for updates on whatโ€™s next in their new chapter.

Article exclusive to STREETS OF TORONTO