REFLECTING, CELEBRATING, & PREPARING FOR AU REVOIR

From the time I started working as a line cook at Faison’s, my dream was to open my own restaurant. June 5, 2001 was that day almost twenty-five years ago. 1017 Woodland Street, originally Fluty’s gas station, became home to Margot Café and Bar.  I hoped to find an audience of diners that would appreciate my fresh, seasonal and simple approach to food. The restaurant was an immediate success thanks to everyone in the community from the employees, purveyors and of course, the guests.

I have had the privilege of nurturing so many extraordinary people with the humble gift of food. From births, graduations, weddings, retirements and every other celebration in between.  In return I have been blessed with many truly incredible experiences. I am so grateful to have been a part of shaping the dining landscape of Nashville, nourishing the community and mentoring other culinary talents.

I have had the pleasure of working with so many talented people, each one bringing to the table their own unique sense of style.  They have contributed in countless ways to our success and many I consider family.  For most, this is the last stop before they embark on their own journey, to open their own restaurants, shops and small businesses and start their own families.  They are my legacy and I couldn’t be happier or more proud of them.

We would not have achieved this level of success without the dedication and determination of our farmers, growers, purveyors of fine foods, wines and spirits. I have learned so much from you and value each and every one of your gifts.   

I have watched East Nashville grow from a handful of small independently owned businesses to today’s vibrant, bustling and nationally recognized hot spot. The growth has spilled over into other up and coming neighborhoods all over the city. There’s a new brigade of chefs sharing their vision. It is an exciting time.

We have survived 9/11, the recession of 2008, a flood, the influx of so many new restaurants, a tornado, COVID, and so much more. The last five years have been harder than the first 20 put together. I am that much older and wiser and don’t have much more fight in me. I am ready for a new chapter. I’m not sure what that means just yet but it begins with dinner at home. 

So, it is with a full heart that I announce to you all that June 5, 2026 will be our last day of service. Marche was a victim of COVID and it fell by the wayside with little fanfare, which is why I want to let everyone know now. So mark your calendars.  I hope to see as many of you as often as possible right up until the end. We are going out with a bang with many celebrations yet to come.

Bon Appetit Y’all.