New French Bistro Poised To Replace Longtime UES Restaurant

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY — The vacant storefront, once home to a popular French bistro on the Upper East Side that closed its doors after more than three decades in the neighborhood, will soon have a new tenant.

Last month, Sel et Poivre, the beloved Lenox Hill bistro located at 853 Lexington Avenue, between East 64th and 65th streets, closed after 35 years in the community, leaving many to wonder about the future of the space.

During a recent Community Board 8 meeting, it was revealed that a new French restaurant is set to replace the former bistro, ensuring authentic French cuisine remains in the neighborhood.

Thibaut Castet and Theliau Probst, owners of Monsieur Bistro, appeared before the board to request their liquor license for the new project, which is expected to operate daily from 11 a.m. to midnight.

Probst and Castet currently co-own Maison Close, a popular French restaurant in Soho, featuring a menu curated by Chef Geoffrey Lechantoux, known for his work with esteemed chefs like Alain Ducasse and Gordon Ramsay.

"Our method of operation is going to be very similar to the prior establishment. We will also be offering French cuisine," Probst told the board.

The restaurant's interior will accommodate 22 tables, seating a total of 60 guests, along with six bar stools, the duo told the board members. They also plan to offer outdoor seating with 12 additional tables, accommodating 27 more guests.

As part of their approved liquor license, Monsieur Bistro will not be permitted to serve alcohol to outdoor patrons after 10 p.m.

Sel et Poivre was operated by Christian Schienle, who served as the head chef and owner since establishing the family-owned business with his wife Pamela in 1989.

Probst informed the board that they were introduced to the landlord by Sel et Poivre's owners, facilitating their assumption of the lease.

No information was released regarding a potential opening date at the meeting, but the pair will need to appear before the board once more to obtain approval for their outdoor dining permission.