Here’s what to expect from Aix en Provence, the French restaurant that just took the place of Terra in Eastover

A new restaurant named Aix en Provence has quietly opened in Eastover next to the Starbucks. The restaurant describes itself as “a Seasonal Provencal and Mediterranean Bistro focusing on Southern French, Northern Spanish and Northern Italian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients with unique spices from countries around the Mediterranean Sea.” Sounds fancy and delicious.

Fast facts

• Brand new, just opened about a week ago. Purchased the restaurant that was previously there, Terra.
• Hours: Monday – Thursday (5 p.m. – 10 p.m.),  Friday-Saturday (5 p.m. – 11 p.m.), closed Sunday.
• Will be launching a French onion soup soon. Sounds delicious.
• Large wine list – wine by the glass as well.
• Craft cocktails (menu below).
• The owners love charcuterie. 4 different types on a daily basis.
• Small menu (I love small menus). Early popular menu items include Escargot ($14), Tagliatelle ($19, ragout of lamb, preserved lemon), Frog Legs ($16, provencal, spinach, micro-greens) and Cassoulet Campagnard ($29, duck confit, garlic sausage, lardons).

The team is legit

• Nicholas Tarnate is the chef. He’s worked under Jacksina at Halcyon and most recently was the Chef de Cuisine under Tom Condron at Lumiere French Kitchen.
• Bryan St. Clair is the co-owner/operator. Bryan has worked all over the Charlotte food scene including: The Charlotte City Club, Sonoma, Sir Edmond Halley’s, Good Food on Montford, Rooster’s, Baku and Lumiere French Kitchen.

• Patrick Garrivier is a co-owner/operator. Patrick has worked at big time restaurants in NYC and his experience includes: Crown Group Hospitality, Alto, Restaurant Daniel, La Cote Basque, Aureole and Le Regence. Most recently he was the GM at Lumiere French Kitchen (you see the theme). Patrick is the French guy, :).

Let’s take a look around…

Menu