CHARMANT NOW OPEN:EUROPEAN BISTRO CHARM MEETS NEW ORLEANS SPIRIT

Maple-glazed Pork Osso Bucco

FROM THE WIRES...

Husband-and-Wife Team Chris & Bonnie Borges’ Mid-City Neighborhood Restaurant 

On Saturday, November 22, 2025, husband-and-wife culinary and hospitality veterans Chris and Bonnie Borges opened Charmant, the latest addition to Mid-City’s dining scene that channels the easy elegance of a European bistro through a distinctly New Orleans lens. Located at 514 City Park Avenue, Charmant showcases modern European flavors, a robust wine list, a curated cocktail program, and the approachable sophistication that defines the Borges’ hospitality philosophy.

“Our goal was to build the kind of place we’d want in our own neighborhood, where you can stop in for brunch, a glass of wine after work, or linger over dinner with friends, " says Chris Borges. “Charmant captures that rhythm – casual by day, buzzing by night – with the kind of energy that feels uniquely New Orleans.” The name Charmant, meaning “lovely” or “captivating” in French, hints at both celebration and connection. It also nods to the Charmat sparkling-wine process, a fitting connection to Bonnie Borges’ thoughtfully curated wine program, which will be a cornerstone of the restaurant’s identity.

Under the direction of Executive Chef Chris Borges, Charmant’s menu celebrates modern interpretations of European bistro fare infused with subtle New Orleans influences. By day, guests can linger over brunch and lunch dishes like the Fried Brussels Sprouts Salad with lima beans, golden raisins, and cardamom yogurt; the Croque Madame layered with truffle salami, fontina, rapini, and soubise; Yeasted Belgian Waffle with apples, lemon and ginger caramel; and a Wagyu Burger with cave-aged cheddar, horseradish beer mustard, caramelized onions, pickled zucchini and arugula served on brioche. In the evening, diners can enjoy an array of plates, meant to be shared, such as Roasted Beets with horseradish panna cotta, rye, dill pollen, and Wagyu beef tallow; Scallop Crudo with apples, Tokyo turnips, and almond aillade; Pork Osso Bucco Arancini with cherry pepper ragout; Vermont Goat Crottin paired with duck confit and spiced pecans; and an array of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.

At Charmant, wine isn’t an afterthought; it’s a defining element of the experience. Curated by General Manager and Sommelier Bonnie Borges, the list highlights carefully chosen wines, including small producers, grower Champagnes, and distinctive varietals that pair with Chef Borges’ menu. Guests can enjoy by-the-glass options, flights, rotating reserves, and tableside pours that balance familiar favorites and unexpected discoveries. According to Bonnie, “Wine should invite conversation, not intimidation. My goal was to create a list that’s exciting but accessible with wines that are as fun and effortless as sitting around the table with friends.” The cocktail list, developed by Lead Bartender Kyle Godwin, known for his refined yet playful approach behind the bar at The Country Club and Brutto Americano, features a mix of house originals and reimagined classics. Guests can kick off the day with a selection of breakfast cocktails, including Citrus & Silk – vodka, Amaretto, orange juice, and cream served on the rocks - and The Breton Sound – blackberry- and Earl Grey-infused gin, lemon, and mint. Dinner cocktails include Pear Pressure – a twist on a spicy margarita with La Gritona reposado, spiced pear puree, lime, triple sec and a fall-inspired syrup and Duck, Duck, Vermouth – duck fat-washed Bourbon, Campari and sweet vermouth. Spritzes, mocktails and dessert drinks round out the menu.  Each drink is designed to pair seamlessly with the restaurant’s brasserie-inspired menu and day-to-night rhythm.

Little Gem Salad

Designed by Bonnie herself, Charmant’s 2,880-square-foot space – formerly home to MoPho – blends Old World craftsmanship with modern sensibility. The interior features blonde-wood floors, hand-laid tile inlays, and copper accents, all balanced by a serene palette of soft blues and crisp whites that evoke both coastal Europe and the relaxed charm of New Orleans. A white-quartz bar anchors the room, while warm lighting and layered textures create a space that feels elegant yet inviting. The outdoor patio extends the restaurant’s atmosphere into a convivial open-air setting, perfect for brunches, aperitifs, and evening gatherings alike.

Charmant is located at 514 City Park Avenue in Mid-City, New Orleans. The restaurant is open from 8 AM to 10 PM, Wednesday – Monday (closed Tuesdays).  For additional information and reservations, please visit www.charmantnola.com.

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