Francine's French Bar: A Dream Realized in Calgary's Chinatown
For years, Garrett Martin and Nate Wry harbored ambitions of launching their own restaurant. After contributing significantly to Calgary's dining scene, including roles in the opening of Major Tom with the Concorde Group in 2021, the chef and bartender duo sought to create something more personal and intimate. Their vision has now materialized with the permanent opening of Francine's, a French bar concept that debuted in early January 2026 in Calgary's Chinatown neighborhood.
From Pop-Up to Permanent: A Journey of Persistence
The path to Francine's was not without challenges. Originally launched as a pop-up in 2024 at the Meat and Bread sandwich shop, where it operated for approximately six months, the concept was always intended to evolve into a full-fledged restaurant. However, securing the ideal location proved more difficult than anticipated. After several unsuccessful attempts, Martin and Wry discovered a space in Chinatown, formerly a herbal medicine store dating back to the 1800s, which has since relocated next door.
They embarked on renovations to transform the site into a 48-seat restaurant and bar, preserving elements like original wallpaper to honor the building's cultural heritage. Despite the extended timeline, both founders believe the wait was justified, resulting in a chic yet unpretentious ambiance featuring a large open kitchen and a lengthy bar for cocktail enthusiasts.
Inside Francine's: Design and Philosophy
Francine's interior exudes coziness and comfort, with a focus on creating an old-world tavern feel rather than a traditional bistro. Martin emphasizes that the establishment is distinctly a French bar, prioritizing a drink-forward experience. The layout allows patrons to observe Wry crafting cocktails at the bar, while the kitchen team, led by head chef Laetitia Chrapchynski and sous chef Jordan Anderson, has ample space and equipment to execute Martin's culinary vision effectively.
Reflecting on their journey, Wry shares, "I think opening something has been my plan since I was 20. This is what I've always wanted to do." Martin echoes this sentiment, stating, "I felt like I would never forgive myself if I didn't take the leap of faith. I didn't want to get stuck and wake up one day at 55 thinking I never did the thing I really wanted to do."
Culinary and Beverage Offerings
While Francine's menu remains faithful to the pop-up's foundation, the extended preparation time has allowed for refinement of both new and existing recipes. Dishes like the Lobster Roll showcase the kitchen's dedication to quality and execution. The senior team, including manager Tamae Schafer, works collaboratively to ensure a seamless dining experience that blends French bar food with a fun, approachable atmosphere.
This new addition to Calgary's culinary landscape not only fulfills a personal dream for its founders but also enriches the city's dining options, offering a unique blend of history, intimacy, and expertly crafted food and drinks.
