Oui. Oui. New West Hartford Food Store To Deliver French Experience

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Oui. Oui. Oui.

A fancy new French-style food and gift store will soon open at West Hartford's Blue Back Square later this fall.

"Char-cu-te-rie," set to open at an undisclosed date at West Hartford's Blue Back Square (80 Memorial Road), is a permit or two away from ramping up to the big day, with the staff hired and plans being completed.

When it does open, folks will be treated to a unique means to prepare for their next party or family get-together.

As the owner, Anna Estiandan, puts it, the charcuterie experience is "curated with intention."

Estiandan's soon-to-open business will be a destination where dinner party complements can be custom-ordered and picked up.

"We are proud to open our doors and share a space where artistry meets indulgence," she wrote on Facebook. "At Char-cu-te-rie, each board is thoughtfully composed — a celebration of fine cheeses, cured meats, fresh accompaniment."

For those begging the question, "what's char-cu-te-rie?" Here's your answer.

This is a French-style cuisine marked by prepared meat products and fine cheeses, served with crackers/bread and other accompaniments, such as nuts, small fruits, pickles, and grapes.

The plates are a big hit at parties and other gatherings.

As for Estiandan's story, she spent 25 years behind a desk as a healthcare executive.

But her side passion, outside of "improving the lives of others," was food, especially when it comes to fancy meats and cheeses in the style of France.

"But deep down, I have always had a passion for creating delicious and beautiful charcuterie boards," she writes in her biography online.

"I have spent countless hours perfecting my craft, experimenting with different flavor combinations and presentation styles."

Simply put, this isn't pepperoni and cheese on a plate for Sunday's big game.

Estiandan's career change could prove to be a palate-pleasing endeavor for her customers.

"Leaving my career in healthcare behind was a difficult decision, but I know this new chapter in my life is where I am meant to be," she wrote.

"I am ready to take on the challenges and rewards of being a small business owner, and I am confident that with hard work and dedication, I can build a successful and thriving charcuterie store that will bring happiness to all who walk through its door."

For more information on 'Char-cu-te-rie,' click on this link.