Uptown St. Augustine, the city’s creative and thoughtful small business district, has always been the place to go for something fun, funky and a little off the beaten path. Now, it’s also the place to get the best bites, bubbles and jazz.
Chez L’Amour is a new, elevated dining concept, offering a social experience through tapas-style small plates, plant-based upscale cuisine, decadent desserts and a full bar, complemented by intimate jazz and piano music performed by world-class musicians. Located at 45 San Marco Ave., Chez L’Amour is literally the house that love built.
“This beautiful space showcases everything we’re passionate about,” said Alberto “AJ” Cebollero, who owns Chez L’Amour with wife Jeanetta. “The architecture of this city is amazing. We were able to take an old house from the late 1800s and, with a lot of love, turn it into a sophisticated and welcoming dining space. We really wanted to evoke the atmosphere of an old jazzy supper club, but with modern-day sensibilities.”
The food at Chez L’Amour is global and evocative, with dishes that carry meaning for the owners, chef and staff.
Executive Chef Ellie Schultz takes inspiration from far and near. Her worldwide travels are evident in dishes like General Tso’s Chicken Biscuits, Thai-Style Mussels and Broccoli Fritto. Pumpkin Beignets and Root Vegetable Hash harken to the restaurant’s Southern roots. Love takes its culinary form in the Spanish Magnolia Cake, inspired by the Cebolleros’ wedding cake.
Live music is an integral part of Chez L’Amour’s charm, with a stunning Yamaha C1 Grand Piano taking center stage. They will welcome world-class jazz musicians and pianists, including greats like Joshua Bowlus and Linda Cole (niece of Nat King Cole).
“Something we take great pride in is our team,” said Jeanetta Cebollero. “We took time to find people who are as passionate about this industry as we are — we’ve spent our lives spreading our love of art and culture! It was really important that we give them the space to be their best selves. AJ and I are all about empowering our staff to be creative and have an active voice at the table. This collaborative approach really takes it to the next level!”
Chez L’Amour opened its doors Nov. 1. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 4 to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. A happy hour is offered Wednesday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.
Reservations may be made at bitesbubblesandjazz.com.
