Fromage expands Parisian influence

Garfene Grandison, Assistant Lifestyle Editor

For those lovers of fine French gourmet cuisines, Fromage Gourmet Market is tucked away on Hillcrest Avenue in the Golden Triangle. Recently, the owners of the first-class eatery, Kirk and Lisa Chin, opened its doors to accommodate a dinner and breakfast menu that was very sought after by patrons who appreciate its Eurocentric feel. They have also expanded the space to accommodate even more seating and fine fare.

Described as an extension of France, the gourmet market and bistro has been opened since February 2013 and has been gaining popularity, especially since more persons are now on a health grind. Fromage offers the perfect fusion of great-tasting food in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, which is evident from its recent expansion.

According to owner, Lisa Chin, "We realised that there was an overflow of customers and not enough seating, as well as we wanted to expand our menu and thus it would mean expansion of the kitchen area."

She continued, "We also wanted it to feel more intimate so customers could stay a little longer and enjoy the European ambience."

There isn't only a difference in the decor, but also the menus that are offered at dinner-time versus lunch-time. " The dinner menu differs from lunch, as lunch items included chowders and hot paninis and local organic salads and pastas. So they were a little lighter and easier to prepare for those heading back to work," says Chin.

She continues, "Although we emphasise the slow-movement food, dinner is more gourmet based, the flavours are more intense, ranging from calamari Fritti, spicy crab cakes to steak au poivre, not to mention the amazing pecan squares, bread pudding and Tiramisu that's pretty much orgasmic as some clients refer to them."

The staff, ambience, menu, wine and quality of our food make them a cut above the rest in a unique and different casual bistro setting.

The new decor is also a talking point in the restaurant as the European influences are quite evident. According to Chin, "My favourite place I have been so far is Paris, enjoying food and Architecture, so I included some of my favourite sceneries from Paris in the bistro. I loved the quaint sidewalk brassieres, cafés and bistros, and the cuisine they offer, and thought to replicate that ambience and food here in Kingston!

Fromage Gourmet Market is open Monday to Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sundays, customers can enjoy Sunday brunch between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The establishment is located at 8 Hillcrest Avenue, Kingston 5. Telephone: 622-9856. The bistro can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Foursquare as @fromagegourmetmarket.