When Cremant opened on 34th Avenue a couple of years ago, it made a big splash in the Seattle restaurant scene. The changes that have taken place behind that oversized white door the past couple of months have been much quieter but just as profound. Founders Scott and Tanya Emerick have sold Cremant to restaurateur Mike McConnell, owner of Caffe Vita and Via Tribunali pizzeria. The new Chef of Cremant is Brendan McGill, and a few of the key original Cremant players in the kitchen and on the floor have stayed on to help the restaurant evolve and prosper.

Already the vibe is shifting to make dinner at Cremant less of an “occasion” and more accessible to a wider range of guests. A new lounge menu focuses on the casual neighborhood diner with playful, cosmopolitan food that complements the French “cuisine traditionelle.” The invigorated front-of-the-house staff brings new energy and enthusiasm as the whole team works together to recraft Cremant into a more frequently-enjoyed member of Madrona’s restaurant row.

It’s a tough time for small businesses in general and restaurants in particular as people tighten their belts and cut back on luxuries such as eating out. But the folks at Cremant are hanging in there, and are encouraged by the very positive responses from new guests and neighborhood regulars alike. The updated brunch is getting rave reviews, and promotions like Dine Around Seattle (formerly 30 for 30) are bringing in people from all over the city. Whatever your opinion of the old Cremant, it’s worth giving the new one a try. How lucky for Madrona that this little French gem is getting a second chance.

From Madrona News
www.madrona.us