An award-winning Boston chef has brought a taste of France to Fenway after his fifth restaurant opened in the city on Thursday.
Chef Douglass Williams officially unveiled DW French, located at 1391 Boylston St., on Oct. 19. The restaurant is inspired by Williams’ time in Paris, where his culinary career took flight.
During this time, Williams learned about the struggles that Black Americans faced before giving birth to the Harlem Renaissance, which made its way to the United States. Therefore, DW French incorporates the elements of the Harlem Renaissance with the rich legacy of French cuisine, he said.
“Here, we embrace the heart of French dining, making it accessible, lively, fun and inviting for all,” Williams said. “The Fenway has always pulsated with energy and history, and with DW French, I’m thrilled to bring a slice of French culture to its vibrant streets.”
In addition to DW French, Williams owns all three of MIDA’s locations in Boston as well as APIZZA, located in Hub Hall right next to TD Garden. The chef was named “Best New Chef” by Food & Wine in 2020 and received a James Beard nomination for “Outstanding Chef” in 2022.
William’s newest restaurant is intended to reflect his immersive journey through Paris, by stripping back the over-complexities that some diners often associate with the cuisine.
“French cuisine often stands on a pedestal, wrapped in layers of intricacy and grandeur. With DW French, my vision is to demystify it, to show that at its core, it’s about warmth, love, and the joy of shared meals,” Williams said. “Our aim is to create a haven where both locals and visitors can experience the authenticity and warmth of French dining, right in the heart of Boston.”
DW’s interior incorporates the classic elements of a French brasserie with a modern twist. The dining area seats 100 guests indoors while an outdoor patio adds 30 more spots.
The menu features quintessential French fare from the french onion soup and Escargot en Croute to the beef bourguignon sandwich and steak frites.
Diners can finish their meals with one of several desserts including Crème Brûlée, profiteroles or tart citron. All the while, guests can sip on DW’s fine selection of French wines and cocktails.
The restaurant is also planning on hosting Saturday and Sunday brunch. The menu will feature brunch classics with French flair, including Pain Purdue and Croque madame.
For reservations and details, guests can visit DW French’s website, visit OpenTable, follow @dwfrenchrestaurant on Instagram, or call (617) 865-9900.
