Goodbye, Bistro Francais: Georgetown Late-Night Spot Shuts Down

After 41 years in business, Georgetown restaurant Bistro Français at 3124 M Street NW is closing down, with chef and owner Gerard Cabrol posting a farewell on Facebook May 24.

"Thank you all my Bistro family, sincerely, for being true professionals, for being inspirational!" he wrote. "You are a great team. Bistro Francais successful outcome, the result of all your hard work and dedication, is down to you. Thank you for the pleasure and privilege of working with you!"

In an interview with Washington City Paper last month, Cabrol said he was ready to retire. He also remarked that Georgetown is "not what it used to be."

Cabrol opened the restaurant all the way back in 1975, featuring classic French recipes that earned it rave reviews. It also stayed open until the wee hours of the morning, earning its place in the heart of Georgetown locals.

The restaurant officially served its last meal May 22.

Image via Bistro Français