Remembering Chez Gus

[cec1]

In cleaning my desk this morning, I found this old receipt from Chez Gus — June 13, 2024. Note ”service compris” on it.

in its first season, it was great . . . very reminiscent of a true French bistrot — casual sophistication.

Unfortunately, with a change of management, the next year was a pale representation of its hopeful beginnings . . . and it didn’t, as I recall, last through the season.

 

[cassidain]

In cleaning my desk this morning, I found this old receipt from Chez Gus — June 13, 2024. Note ”service compris” on it.

"En France, la mention « Prix service compris » est légalement obligatoire dans les restaurants et cafés"

 

[davesmom]

Had the worst resto experience in the 20++ years coming to SBH at that restaurant..something fishy was going on there..and we are not talking Branzino here...

 

[cec1]

Had the worst resto experience in the 20++ years coming to SBH at that restaurant..something fishy was going on there..and we are not talking Branzino here...

I remember you writing about it, Gina . . . there was no doubt about how you felt! I suspect that it was the second season, when it didn’t remain open very long. I’m sorry that is your memory of the place . . . there was a better time.

 

[amyb]

We were lucky to catch it the week they opened and really enjoyed the food, the ambiance and the service. Then, sad to say, it all crashed. C’est La vie.

 

[Jim Kelly-Evans]

Miss Entr'acte, another good one gone too soon.

 

[bkeats]

Our dalliance with Chez Gus was brief but intense. I miss it so much.

Loved the menu. My favorite dish there. Simple but perfect. Such a classic bistro dish.

 

[amyb]

I loved their roasted marrow bones

 

[Amery]

We miss it too.
Really wish someone would open a new and improved version.
They had the right idea!

 

[davesmom]

We miss it too.
Really wish someone would open a new and improved version.
They had the right idea!

The closest I could come to that ideal would be the restaurants we dined in, in Grand Case on SXM. Maybe we should ask some of the lovely owners to open a branch of La Villa or Auberge Gourmande on SBH! There are other great restaurants in Grand Case, too.

 

[cec1]

I loved their roasted marrow bones

I think this was an order:

 

[amyb]

YES, Dennis!

 

[cec1]

The closest I could come to that ideal would be the restaurants we dined in, in Grand Case on SXM. Maybe we should ask some of the lovely owners to open a branch of La Villa or Auberge Gourmand on SBH! There are other great restaurants in Grand Case, too.

The problems in opening a “branch“ on SBH start with the cost of space . . . then the cost of staff housing . . . not to mention wages & food cost. Right now, it seems to be only a small group of “St. Tropez” investors who can afford the entry fee. And the source of their financial backing is unknown.

 

[cassidain]

actually, of the 12 places on our list for upcoming trip, 2 are associated with a Côte d'Azur (not St-Tropez specifically) group. the rest are either local or American or other European ownership.

 

[davesmom]

The problems in opening a “branch“ on SBH start with the cost of space . . . then the cost of staff housing . . . not to mention wages & food cost. Right now, it seems to be only a small group of “St. Tropez” investors who can afford the entry fee. And the source of their financial backing is unknown.

Of course, you are correct, but it is nice to know that these restaurants still exist, and the traditional French food and charming experiences are alive and well if you happen to be in SXM or if you are doing an overnight on your way to SBH.

 

[davesmom]

actually, of the 12 places on our list for upcoming trip, 2 are associated with a Côte d'Azur (not St-Tropez specifically) group. the rest are either local or American or other European ownership.

Looking forward to hearing about your experiences!

 

[elgreaux]

I hear that Chez Gus is now a private restaurant for the owners of Chrome Hearts, who bought the building but could just be a rumor....

 

[cec1]

Of course, you are correct, but it is nice to know that these restaurants still exist, and the traditional French food and charming experiences are alive and well if you happen to be in SXM or if you are doing an overnight on your way to SBH.

“Of course” . . . so great to know that restaurants of “traditional French food and charming experiences are alive and well if you happen to be on SXM or if you are doing an overnight on your way to SBH!” I’ve found similar surprise in a couple of SJU restaurants which I enjoy at times that I happen to overnight there. When next on SXM for an overnight, I’ll eagerly seek out La Villa or Auberge Gourmand. Thanks for your recommendations!

 

[cec1]

I hear that Chez Gus is now a private restaurant for the owners of Chrome Hearts, who bought the building but could just be a rumor....

What is “Chrome Hearts?”

 

[elgreaux]

https://www.chromehearts.com/

Chrome Hearts is very hot and hip American lifestyle company and luxury (expensive!) brand from Hollywood, producing silver, gold, and diamond accessories, alongside eyewear, leather items, apparel, furniture, kitchenware, and miscellaneous other items, using leather, silver, and ebony. They have a row of stores on the upper road in Gustavia...