Vive la France!
Celebrate Bastille Day at these 5 French-inspired fêtes
With Bastille Day, July 14, comes one more chance to celebrate independence — this time of the French persuasion. For local Francophiles (as well as those of us who just enjoy French food and drink), there are options aplenty for celebrating La Fête Nationale.
Below, we highlight five of the best celebrations in town.
Mulberry
The downtown wine bar is hosting an exclusive dinner by Chef Kristine Kittrell and Sous Chef Daniel Medina featuring savory French cuisine. Enjoy homemade sausages, such as boudin blanc, along with ratatouille, watermelon ricotta salata, blackened eggplant puree and more. Along with your meal, sip a glass of Chateau d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé. The complete dinner is only $25 per guest.
Peche
As Austin’s first absinthe bar, Peche will naturally pay special tribute to the country that made the green spirit trendy in the first place. Peche will offer $5 Pernod Absinthe and Bastille Whiskey all night long. In addition, specials from the kitchen include garlic sausage and croute, gougéres and more to keep you singing the praises of the other red, white and blue nation.
Êpicerie
Êpicerie will feature exceptional French cheeses paired with a glass of wine for $14 on Bastille Day. Among the selection will be Camembert au Calvados, Picandine, Chaumes, Abbaye de Belloc and Bleu d’Auvergne. Add on a house treat — such as smoked boudin or a beignet — and you'll be transported to the French countryside.
Apothecary
The Burnet Road spot will salute France for two days. On Monday, all French wines will be $10 off. The real celebration happens on Tuesday during the French wine edition of Apothecary's Summer Wine Dinner Series. Tickets are $60 each and include a six-course meal with wine parings.
Justine’s Brasserie
The storming of the Bastille signified the beginning of a revolution, and Justine’s will celebrate that revolutionary spirit with a night of punk rock and good food. The Applicators take the stage at 10 pm, followed by Crooked Bangs and Les Debauches. Grab Parisian street food fresh off the grill or dine from the restaurant's standard menu. Come early for free admission — entry is $10 after 10 pm.