Michael Hepworth

TUSTIN LANDMARK NEIUPORT 17 RESTAURANT CLOSES
AFTER 45 YEARS
Out of the Ashes Rises New Opportunities
By Kay Schroeder
According to Greek mythology, the mythical bird the Phoenix, obtains new life by arising from the ashes of its predecessor.

Tustin,CA(Perfect Meal Today)3/31/15—The March 31, 2015 closing of Tustin landmark’s aviation themed restaurant, Neiuport 17, came as a shock to many of the restaurant employees who had served the Continental style restaurant for decades. The burgeoning and thriving aerospace and military industries were the fuel that made this restaurant the go-to place for so many years. A huge faithful clientele was created that supported this institution for most of its 45 years’ existence.

However the recession/post-recession took a huge toll on many of Orange County’s restaurants, especially the opulent restaurants. Among the casualties were Mr. Stox Restaurant in Anaheim and the wonderful French restaurant, Vie En Rose in Brea. With the declining economy, restaurant goers shifted their focus and preferences to the more relaxed, yet upscale restaurants that offered more favorable pricing.
Alas, out of the ashes possibly beams a ray of hope, and even opportunity.
Rumor has it that previous restaurant operator/owner Pascal Olhats who recently closed Brasserie Pascal (previously Café Rouge, French 75, and Bistro 75) in Fashion Island, Newport Beach, is looking for a new venture.
The French farmhouse/chateau building just vacated by Nieuport 17 seems a perfect new home for a top-notch French restaurant with owner name recognition.
A new venture by Pascal? Or, possibly Thomas Keller of the French Laundry? Or, Joachim Spichal of the Patina Restaurant group?
Humm, all wonderful musings, intoxicating to ponder.
Keep an alert and watchful eye on the possibilities to come.
COURTESY CAMERON IRONS
Michael Hepworth
287 S.Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
http://twitter.com/MrSpiritsman
http://alquimie.com.au/publicatio