Alsace Restaurant in Union

Alsace in Union opened in October 2023, but the story behind it began long before that. Owners Jennifer and Fabrice Roux relocated to Maine after eight wildfire evacuations in six years pushed them to leave California. With three previous restaurants under their belt, they searched for the right location before landing in Union, drawn by the charm of the village and the chance to build something lasting.

Jennifer runs the front of house while Fabrice helms the kitchen. Though his résumé includes stints at the Hotel Crillon and the Automobile Club de France in Paris, the couple is quick to downplay pretense. "We love comfortable elegance and beautifully good food," Jennifer says. "When people ask about a dress code, we say, yes, please wear clothes."

Regulars make up the majority of their business. Some are seasonal residents with standing weekly reservations; others are year-round locals who prefer the bar for its conversational feel. Jennifer says the bar has quietly become a place where new friendships form over drinks and dinner: "We have one couple from Texas who bring a new couple every Saturday night. By the end of the night, everyone is talking and making plans to meet again."

In addition to regular dinner service, Alsace hosts wine and spirits dinners, often featuring winemakers and producers from around the world. A new beer garden is also in the works for the summer season. As Jennifer puts it, "We’re building culinary community, and we love that."

FAMOUS FOR:
Thoughtfully crafted French cuisine and a welcoming bar, where strangers become friends.

ADDRESS:
1422 Heald Hwy in Union, ME

WEBSITE:
alsacemaine.com

photos: Peter Logue