A little slice of Paris has officially arrived in Downtown Columbus. Chouette, a charming French bistro, has opened its doors at the bustling corner of Gay and High streets, bringing the romance and flavor of France to the heart of the city.
Located at 66 N. High St., Chouette serves up classic French cuisine that will transport you straight to the cobblestone streets of Paris. With dishes like authentic bouillabaisse and steak frites on the menu, this new bistro promises to be a haven for food lovers looking to indulge in the rich and timeless flavors of France.
The restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a warm embrace. Chouette is dedicated to creating an atmosphere where every guest feels like an old friend, welcomed with open arms. “We want it to be approachable,” said Jacques Sorci, the Director of Culinary at Chouette. And the menu? It’s a celebration of French culinary tradition, with each dish paying homage to the essence and allure of French cuisine.
One of the first things you’ll notice when dining at Chouette is the bread—freshly baked in-house and served as part of a “warm bread and butter ritual.” This cherished tradition is just the beginning of your culinary journey at Chouette, where every detail is designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Parisian café.
In addition to its mouthwatering food, Chouette offers a wine list that’s as French as it gets, featuring selections from the country’s most celebrated vineyards. And if wine isn’t your thing, the cocktail menu offers French-inspired drinks that are sure to delight.
But what’s in a name? In this case, a lot. “Chouette” translates to “owl” in French, symbolizing wisdom, but it’s also used colloquially to mean “cool” or “nice.” It’s the perfect name for a bistro that blends age-old culinary wisdom with a cool, contemporary vibe.
Sorci, who has over three decades of experience in the restaurant industry, including time at 5-star and Michelin-starred establishments, brings a deep respect for the integrity of traditional recipes to Chouette. “The seafood bouillabaisse, just like in Marseille, is really our crown jewel,” Sorci shared. “Everyone has their interpretation of it, but ours is the same one that you would eat in Marseille.”
To ensure authenticity, Sorci revisited the French classics while preparing the menu, making sure every dish stayed true to its roots. “When you look at the establishment, everything is so authentic,” Sorci said. “From the minute you look at the awning, the terrace—it’s so French. The wine list is French, everything is. So the menu had to be in line with that. It’s not French-like, it’s French.”
Chouette is a celebration of French culture, food, and the joy of dining with friends. So whether you’re a Francophile or just someone who loves good food, Chouette is ready to welcome you with open arms, warm bread, and a truly authentic French dining experience. You can make your reservation here. Bon appétit!
