We were sad to hear of the departure of chef David Borselle from Bar Bouchee, but he left the kitchen well-tended by sous chef, Eric Hole. Next, we were cheered to find him installed in his own kitchen at the new A’vert in West Hartford! French bistro fare is high on my list, so it’s lovely to have an authentic rendition on excursions to WeHa. You’ll find all the classics here: a fresh endive, frisee and blue cheese salad, perfectly roasted chicken with pommes puree, a delicate sauteed skate wing, steak frites (of course). We stopped for brunch and gorged ourselves on steak and eggs, crispy baguettes and freshly squeezed orange juice. The dining room is modern brasserie: bentwood chairs, reclaimed wood, marble-topped bar and a handwritten menu on massive antique mirrors. It’s a big space, so no need to worry about reservations…yet!

www.avertbrasserie.com

Tags: West Hartford, David Borselle, French, bistro, brasserie