"The longtime bistro on the outskirts of the French Quarter had its last dinner service on October 25, 17 years after it was opened by Matthew Guidry and James Conte. After a change in ownership and a significant revamp, Meauxbar reopened in 2014 under the LeBlanc + Smith umbrella (which also includes Sylvain, Cavan, and Barrel Proof), with chef Kristen Essig at the helm. Essig left in 2016, but the its refined, French-inspired menu continued to be a destination for regulars and tourists. LeBlanc + Smith reopened its five restaurants with a new model over the summer, one employing a leaner staff that receives a base salary and company-provided health insurance. Robert LeBlanc, owner of the LeBlanc + Smith group, said Meauxbar staff will move over to his other restaurants." - Clair Lorell
