Graham Elliot Opens Le Margot in Fort Worth | Eater Dallas

"When I walk into Le Margot, Graham Elliot’s distinctive white glasses frames are eye-catching but not the first thing I notice—the dining room is dominated by a gorgeous wall that looks like horse hair in deepening shades of pink and maroon. The space, converted from a Corner Bakery, swims in pink and black with decor that mixes French kitsch (etched glass plates and coupes) and ultra-modern touches (moody photographs), resulting in a quirky French bistro vibe. Named for chef Felipe Armenta’s daughter, Elliot calls it “fine dining redefined”: the menu leans on classic, rustic French dishes with twists—tarte flambee flatbreads lead the menu while coq au vin and bouillabaisse appear as specials. Standouts include a Royale with Cheese (a cheeseburger doused in melted brie) and a traditional steak frites served with “Margot butter” (butter and smoked tallow mixed with parsley, cracked pepper, and lemon zest); all beef and parts of the cow come from Armenta’s ranch. Towers of charcuterie and shellfish and a caviar service offer bougie options, and the cocktail list is whimsical—the Oh La La (a Cosmo with cotton candy), the Napoleon Complex (gin, St. Germain, cucumber, and lime), and the Boulevard of Broken Dreams (bourbon, vermouth, and Campari) nod to Elliot’s love of music. Elliot emphasizes simplicity—“everything on the menu is three components”—and wants the place to feel loud and fun so guests aren’t intimidated; he says he wants to be there twice a week eating oysters and drinking at the bar. Wyl Lima serves as culinary manager and runs the kitchen when Elliot is away. Le Margot opened in June; reservations are available on Tock." - Courtney E. Smith