A Corner Dedicated to Georges Forgeois, the Creator of This Dream

In honor of Georges Forgeois, the visionary behind Bartabac, we dedicate this space to celebrate his legacy and remember the passion that brought our beloved bistro to life. Georges didn’t just open a restaurant; he created a dream that became a meeting place for friends, families, and lovers of great food.

From France to New York: A Story of Perseverance

Georges arrived in New York in 1979 with only $500 and a backpack, driven by his dream of succeeding in a new land. Starting from scratch, he washed dishes and learned English while immersing himself in the restaurant world. Through hard work and determination, he climbed from being a waiter to becoming one of New York’s most recognized restaurateurs.

The Beginning of a Legacy: Jules Bistro

In 1991, Georges opened his first restaurant, Jules Bistro, in the East Village. This cozy spot quickly became a local icon, celebrated for its bohemian atmosphere, live jazz music, and authentic French cuisine. It was here that Georges cemented his passion for creating unique spaces that combined great food with an unforgettable ambiance.

Bartabac and Beyond: A Creator’s Vision

With the success of Jules Bistro, Georges expanded his vision, opening several restaurants, each with its own distinct character:

Café Noir: A Mediterranean adventure inspired by his travels to Spain and his North African heritage. This venue revolutionized New York’s dining scene by popularizing tapas and making them fun and accessible.
Le Singe Vert: Located in Chelsea, this bistro embodied the elegance and comfort of classic French cuisine.
Cercle Rouge: A gem in Tribeca that seamlessly blended tradition and modernity in both its menu and design.
Bartabac: The crown jewel of Brooklyn, where the love for live music, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere created an unforgettable space for everyone.

Georges’ Legacy at Bartabac

While many of Georges’ restaurants have closed over time, Bartabac remains a living testament to his vision and passion. This bistro perfectly represents the blend of French authenticity and New York spirit, creating a place where every guest feels at home.

A Tribute to a Dream Come True

At Bartabac, we celebrate Georges Forgeois’ legacy every day. This space is a tribute to the man who proved that dreams, perseverance, and a love for community can transform a simple idea into something extraordinary.

"In honor of Georges Forgeois, the visionary behind Bartabac, we dedicate this space to celebrate his legacy and remember the passion that brought our beloved bistro to life. Georges didn’t just open a restaurant; he created a dream that became a meeting place for friends, families, and lovers of great food."