Beloved French restaurant La Croisette (7401 Gulf Blvd) has reopened its doors after a three-month hurricane recovery effort that cost owners Mickael and Nathalie Roche $150,000, in addition to losing their home. “We were able to count on the support of our dedicated staff,” says Mickael. “As well as Kahwa Coffee, and in particular, the Perrier family, who lent us a helping hand during those challenging times.”
The owners’ determination to rebuild and reopen echoes their early investment sentiments. They purchased the restaurant in 2020, moving to St. Pete Beach from France amid the pandemic. “Despite its closure during the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw the potential to restore its heritage.”
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And restore they did. The Roches retained the restaurant’s original name from 1986. They kept the same staff and doubled the previous owner’s annual revenue from $700,000 to $1.6 million. The revenue increase speaks to the quality, which has earned La Croisette the title of “Best Breakfast Spot” in Tampa Bay for two consecutive years.
Owners seek new culinary journey
Culinary accolades aside, the Roches felt responsible for taking care of their staff, which was the primary motivator to reopen La Croisette. “There was no income for three months,” adds Mickael. “Many of the wait staff is older, and it’s difficult for them to find new jobs.”
La Croisette is fully functional again, save some minor cosmetic repairs to the building, and the entire wait staff, 18 original people, loyally returned to the restaurant. Not a soul lost. Fresh croissants are arriving from France. Eggs Benedicts are flying out of the kitchen. Crepes and quiche are ready for your delectation. The Roches are even looking forward to new ventures in Tampa Bay.
“We are actively exploring new restaurant opportunities in the Tampa Bay region,” says Mickael. “Eager to replicate our success and continue our culinary journey.”
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