Ghyslain to close NuLu restaurant - for now
Construction is to be blamed for the closure of another Louisville restaurant this week.
Following the Tuesday announcements of two Highlands restaurants' closures, Ghyslain on Market - which specializes in chocolates and French cuisine - has added its name to the list of foodie businesses that will shutter its doors - at least for now.
The shop's last day open will be Jan. 29, according to a Facebook post published Wednesday.
However, owner Ghyslain Maurais said he plans to either reopen the bistro or launch a new restaurant once construction is finished on a hotel being built behind the building.
"We want to sincerely thank everyone in the Louisville community for their support over the last 6 years!" the post stated. "We are sad to say goodbye!"
Ghyslain opened its Market Street bistro in 2011 and has since added two additional locations in Westport Village and Union City, Indiana.
The company rents its space at 721 E. Market St. from the owners of Creation Gardens, who also own property on which an AC Hotel by Marriott is being built, Maurais said.
About three years ago, Maurais said he made an agreement with the owners to close his restaurant while construction takes place, since customers would not be able to reach his business during the anticipated two-year process.
"We didn't have any problem with the restaurant or anything," Maurais said. "... We say permanently close because the hotel is going to be opening, and we're not sure if we will do the same concept or something different."
Maurais said the hotel will not include its own restaurant, so he hopes that whatever business he opens in the space will adequately serve its guests.
"Most restaurants, seven years is about their lifespan anyway," Maurais said. "... We want to do something more special for the customer who is there."
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Reach reporter Bailey Loosemore at 502-582-4646 or bloosemore@courier-journal.com.