Who we are and what we are about

A true neighborhood bistro. La Cigogne gathers neighbors and visitors from out of town in its warm and casual environment.

A quintessential French bistro is not just about the food; it is an immersive experience that envelops you in its cozy ambiance. To create an authentic Alsatian atmosphere, we designed the interior with a welcoming fireplace, a long bar, and comfortable booths. The fireplace, reminiscent of the hearths found in traditional Alsatian homes, provides a warm and inviting focal point for the restaurant. The long bar encourages patrons to relax and enjoy a glass of wine or a refreshing Meteor beer while socializing with friends and fellow diners. The comfortable booths offer a sense of intimacy and privacy, allowing guests to savor their meals in a relaxed and unhurried manner. As the aroma of sauerkraut and the sounds of laughter fill the air in our bistro, we are reminded that food has the power to bridge cultures and bring people together. La Cigogne is not just a place to eat; it is a little piece of Alsace in the heart of Narrowsburg, a testament to the power of culinary dreams and the beauty of sharing one's heritage with the world.

Alsatian wines, renowned for their exceptional quality and unique varietals, are an essential part of the dining experience at La Cigogne. The wine list features a carefully curated selection of Alsatian wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Noir, all sourced from reputable vineyards in the region.

The heart and soul of our bistro lie in the kitchen, where our dedicated chef work tirelessly to create dishes that capture the essence of Alsace. From delicate quiches to hearty coq au Riesling, the menu features a wide array of Alsatian specialties. Every dish is prepared with the finest, locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing quality and authenticity.

While La Cigogne remains true to its Alsatian roots, it also embraces the vibrant spirit of New York City. The hustle and bustle of the city, the diversity of its people, and the cosmopolitan flair all contribute to the unique energy that infuses our bistro. This fusion of cultures and experiences has allowed us to become a true reflection of New York's international appeal, where locals and tourists can discover the charm of Alsace without leaving the city.

La Cigogne pronounced <cig-own> means stork in English and according to popular beliefs, the bird is a strong symbol of the Alsace region of France and refers to “new born & prosperity”.

Damien

Born in Strasbourg, France near the German border, I arrived in NYC in 2006 and started as a dishwasher in an Irish pub to pay my rent. This experience gave me a firsthand look at the inner workings of a restaurant, including kitchen operations, teamwork, and customer service. Dishwashing is often a humble but essential job in the restaurant industry, and it gave me a deeper understanding of the challenges and demands of the industry. Back then I had no desire to ever own my place. Through the years, I grew, learned, failed but most importantly started to love the industry. 

My journey began in Brooklyn in 2014, where I had the privilege of opening la Cigogne, followed by a cocktail bar (Barely Disfigured) in the same neighborhood few years later. For eight wonderful years, I poured my heart and soul into creating an authentic and welcoming experience for patrons. The bistro became a second home for many, a place where they could savor the finest French dishes, from coq au vin to bouillabaisse. The strong sense of community that developed around the bistro was a testament to the power of food in bringing people together.

The decision to close the doors of my beloved Brooklyn bistro in 2022 was not easy, but it marked the start of a fresh chapter filled with dreams, ambition, and a profound appreciation for the industry.

The love and dedication I poured into my Brooklyn bistro are now directed towards bringing the unique and captivating flavors of Alsace to the diverse and dynamic culinary landscape of the Catskills & the Pocono Mountains.

This new adventure is not without its challenges, but the opportunity to share the rich traditions of Alsatian cuisine and create lasting memories for patrons is a source of immense joy and inspiration. As I embark on this exciting journey, I look forward to embracing the vibrant culinary tapestry of New York and sharing the culinary treasures of Alsace with all who visit my bistro.

Damien