In France, it’s called “un cinq à sept.” In West Virginia, it’s simply called “happy hour.” But, in Lewisburg in particular, it’s a special Wednesday through Friday evening event – held outdoors in the pleasant floral garden of new bistro-concept The French Goat.
Enjoy aptly named Goatinis such as the “Dirty” with goat blue-cheese-stuffed olives; “Jo Ann’s” with Woodford Reserve, sweet vermouth, bitters and brandied cherry; or the “French” with Ciroc vodka, Chambord, pineapple juice, and lemon twist – all served at half-price. A variety of wines and champagne are available by the glass ($5) along with housemade charcuterie, fromage and small plates by Certified Master Chef Fred Raynaud. Enjoy the spectacular Greenbrier County fall weather in a casual setting. On Wednesdays, revel in the musical stylings of acoustic guitarist Terrence Zimmerman, a White Sulphur Springs native. This not-to-be-missed event began Wednesday, Sept. 23 and will continue this autumn, weather permitting, 5-7 p.m.
The hottest ticket in town is a dinner reservation in The French Goat’s charming dining space. During a similar time slot, a new offering is announced for theater and movie-goers in the launch of a fixed-price menu ($35, plus tax) currently offered from 5-6 p.m. on Wednesday through Saturday. Enjoy an artfully prepared three-course menu by French-trained Chef Fred Raynaud, a World Certified Master Chef.
Select from starters such as French onion soup, salad vert and chicken & duck liver parfait; entree of chicken paillard, boeuf bourguignon, or duck confit; and dessert course of maple pot de crème or chocolate pot. French press coffee and a goat shortbread cookie top off the menu, with an extensive wine and champagne list featuring special by-the-glass selections. Signature “Goatinis” distinguish the varietal cocktail menu.
Enjoy a romantic bungalow setting, decorated with authentic Parisian bistro furniture, antiques, original art – and dinner and serveware sourced from the south of France. Greenbrier County-sourced food product is a hallmark of the restaurant, as is exemplary service and a personal greeting from proprietors Arthur Forgette and Debbie Porter.
“We’re delighted to share our love of French cookery and our relationship with a wonderful world class chef in a laid-back, approachable way,” says Porter. “Come lift a glass of bubbly with us and toast to the good life in southern West Virginia!”
The French Goat, 111 South Lafayette Street, Lewisburg, 407-647-1052 (www.thefrenchgoat.com). Dinner reservations suggested.