The culinary essence of France has arrived in Woodland Hills, where a Michelin-star-trained restaurateur is bringing authentic French flavors to the San Fernando Valley.
A Taste of France in Woodland Hills
Nicolas Fanucci, owner of Fanucci Restaurant Group, opened Deux Bistro in Woodland Hills in March. A French-born restaurateur with a background in some of the world’s top restaurants, Fanucci aims to provide guests with a unique and welcoming dining experience.
“I want people to feel like they’re visiting someone’s home when they come here, like they’re being welcomed and cared for in a friend’s house,” says Fanucci, who also owns Nicolas Eatery in the Beverly Center.
A Michelin-Star Legacy
Fanucci’s credentials speak for themselves. Having worked at iconic establishments such as Roger Verge’s Le Moulin de Mougin in Cannes and Le Cirque 2000 in New York City, Fanucci is perhaps best known for his role as general manager at the Michelin-starred French Laundry in Napa Valley. Now, with Deux Bistro, he’s offering a new opportunity for diners to experience authentic French cuisine in a casual yet refined setting.
“Our food is simple, traditional, and authentic,” says Fanucci, his heavy French accent underscoring his passion for preserving the true flavors of France.
For those visiting Deux Bistro for the first time, Fanucci offers his recommendations for five must-try dishes.
Must-Try Dishes at Deux Bistro
Onion Soup
A hallmark of French dining, onion soup is an essential item on Deux Bistro’s menu. However, Fanucci’s version has a twist—it’s a vegetarian onion soup made with a vegetable consommé instead of the traditional beef broth. The rich sweetness comes from the slow caramelization of the onions, which are topped with a roasted baguette and a layer of melted Emmental cheese.
“You’ll taste the sweetness; it’s light, rich, and so flavorful. And when you add on the cheese, it just melts in your mouth,” says Fanucci.
Steak Frites
Steak frites is another classic French dish that remains simple but deeply flavorful. Deux Bistro’s version features an 8-ounce hanger steak seared to perfection in a cast iron pan. It’s served with crispy fries, which are paired with herb garlic butter for dipping.
“You’ll taste the richness in the steak. It’s very smooth and meaty, perfect for meat lovers,” Fanucci notes.
Poulet Frite
For a hearty, comforting meal, Fanucci recommends the poulet frite. This dish includes a roasted chicken that has been brined for 24 hours, ensuring juiciness in every bite. It’s served with mashed potatoes, spinach, purple mustard, and a savory chicken jus.
“It’s meant to taste like something you’d be served in a French household. The chicken melts in your mouth, and the mashed potatoes are just unbelievable,” he adds.
Chocolate Mousse
Dessert at Deux Bistro is no less traditional. Fanucci’s chocolate mousse is rich and creamy, yet light enough to leave you wanting more.
“It’s very rich but still light, so you’re going to want to take another bite,” he says.
Visit Deux Bistro
For those looking to experience authentic French flavors without leaving the San Fernando Valley, Deux Bistro offers a carefully curated menu that delivers on both taste and tradition.
Deux Bistro is located at 20969 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills. For more information, call 747-230-4034.
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