La Table’s Manuel Pucha Strikes Out On His Own With a New French Bistro

La Table’s executive chef Manuel Pucha is teaming up with his brothers to start his own French restaurant.

Maison Pucha Bistro will take over Black & White restaurant’s old home at 1001 Studewood this fall, according to the Chron. The Heights newcomer will serve French food with some Ecuadoran and South American influences in an upscale, casual setting. No word yet on whether or not La Table’s macarons will make an appearance.

Pucha is no stranger to French food. He worked with chef Philippe Schmit at Bistro Moderne and Philippe Restaurant. Schmit eventually left and the restaurant gained a second life as Table on Post Oak and finally La Table, which is known for serving a combination of contemporary French and American cuisine.

Pucha’s brothers Cristian and Victor, who worked in New York City as a bar manager and pastry chef respectively, will be moving to Houston to bring their talents to the table.

No word yet on when Maison Pucha Bistro is set to make its debut just yet, but look for it to arrive sometime in the fall.

• Manuel Pucha to open French restaurant in the Heights [Chron.com]