Chef Eric Bechard leaves Seattle, Opening “Thistle” in McMinnville
When Alberta Street Oyster Bar and Grill opened, Chef Eric Bechard was Oregonian’s Rising Star for 2006. Known for a playful take on “modern American” cuisine, his cooking received accolades from many reviewers, including Michael Charles on this site:
One highlight of my most recent visit was chicken “oysters”, a starter as playful as it is delectable. This heretofore unknown (to me, anyway) fowl part, otherwise called a chicken “love handle,” is a dark meat segment that apparently resides between the bird’s thigh and backbone. In the Alberta St. OB&G incarnation, three of the crispy-skinned “oysters” are presented in a bowl with gnocchi, sweet peas and the same golden raisin sauce that not-too-sweetly used to accompany the sweetbreads starter.
Eric left Portland in June of 2008 to be chef de cuisine at Opal restaurant in Seattle. Now sources tell me that he is following a dream, leaving Seattle and heading South to McMinnville. The restaurant, THISTLE, will have approximately 20 seats in the dining room and six at the kitchen counter. In addition, they have made an offer on a plot of land, and are going to start a small farm with chickens, rabbits, goats, vegetables and fruit trees. Eric is known for working hand in hand with farmers, ranchers, and fisherman, so this sounds like a perfect opportunity for him. They have a good amount of work ahead but are scheduled to open July 1st on 3rd street in McMinnville.
Carolyn says
I’ll drive!
Eastsidegirl says
carpool!
Guignol says
We are looking forward to the opening if Thistle. We had eaten at the Oyster House and always loved the food. Great philosophy of bringing the farm directly to the table. BTW FoodDude it is McMinnville. Welcome to Yamhill County Eric!!!!!
LuLu Belle says
I hope it is not going to be another French bistro, Spanish tapas, or Italian trattoria/restaurant. We are all looking for a new concept to add to the diversity of McMinnville.
MacMan says
We certainly ar lucky to have the Restaurants that we do in McMinnville and Dundee/Yamhill county. Can’t wait, three new spots opening this year.
Guignol says
I dont think it will be anything like what you mentioned LuLu. Having eaten at Oyster house, Eric is a chef that displays his passion for cooking through a genuine approach reflecting on his own style and beliefs.
LuLu Belle says
With that in mind and not calling it a “bistro” we welcome the addition to the dining scene in McMinnville with open arms. Stay open for late night so we can come and dine after work. Wishing Eric all the best.
CO says
Late night? exactly how fast do you want them to go out of business? It doesnt work in PDX, its surely not going to work in McMinnville. Unless of course you are using “latenight” in context of location, and you mean 8pm.
LuLu Belle says
With Eric’s following, I don’t think that is possible. The dining scene in the WV is going to be fantastic. There are lots of people looking for drinks and small bites at 8-11pm on the weekend. Unlike PDX, there are very few options here.
MacMan says
With the great happenings at our current restaurants in Mac and the Allison, Thistle, and another yet to be press released spot opening this year we shall have lots of options for locals and tourists in the area. Nick’s backroom speakeasy is da bomb, lets hope for more in the area.
WineGirl79 says
MacMan – can you give any additional insight on new restaurant openings in McMinnville?
Greg says
Seattle can have the embarrASSing head butting Eric Bechard back.
Food Dude says
Remember, he came from Portland first ;)