When Michelin-star French chef Ludo Lefebvre opened Chez Maggy inside Denver’s new Thompson hotel last year, he proudly proclaimed it to be “unapologetically French.” The television personality, author and restauranteur trained in France for 12 years before becoming a culinary legend. Although, we suppose that’s natural for someone who started working in Michelin-starred kitchens at age 14 and spent 20 years learning from some of France’s best chefs. This is his first restaurant outside of California.
Paying homage to his roots while marrying his rich culinary traditions with local ingredients whenever possible, the French brasserie Chez Maggy is considered a “love letter to Margaret, Ludo’s mother-in-law” who lived in Colorado and was struck by a drunk driver in 2019. Look for a portrait of her hanging on the wall and her Tagliatelle Bolognese on the menu.
The restaurant is open for both brunch and dinner. The morning menu includes eggs, pastries, Croque Madame and more. The French-style omelet is known as one of the best in town, particularly when it's smothered in caviar. In the evening, there are perfectly dressed salads, delectable Pâté Campagne served with cornichon and country toast and the Trout Almandine that melts in your mouth. Plus other exquisite and “unapologetically French” items such as the Roasted Organic Half Chicken in Duck Jus, Foie Gras Tartine, Onion Soup Gratinée and the simple but not-to-be-underestimated side of Baguette & Butter.
There’s more, of course, to dazzle your taste buds like beautifully balanced cocktails, a curated wine list and all the French desserts of your dreams like Crème Brulee, Chocolate Mousse, Crepes Suzette and so on.
When asked what Ludo brings to Denver, he likes to say, “I bring a lot of butter.” Having this welcomed nod to France in LoDo is, shall we say, tres bien. Bon appetit.
Chez Maggy
1616 Market St, Denver
ChezMaggyDenver.com