The visionary behind Bartabac, we dedicate this space to celebrate his legacy and remember the passion that brought our beloved bistro to life. Georges didn’t just open a restaurant; he created
a dream that became a meeting place for friends, families, and lovers of great food.
Georges arrived in New York in 1979 with only $500 and a backpack, driven by his dream of succeeding in a new land. Starting from scratch,
he washed dishes and learned English while immersing himself in the restaurant world.
Through hard work and determination, he
climbed from being a waiter to becoming one
of New York’s most recognized restaurateurs.
In honor of Georges Forgeois, the visionary behind Bar tabac, we dedicate this space to celebrate his legacy and remember the passion that brought our beloved bistro to life. Georges didn’t just open a restaurant; he created a dream that became a meeting place for friends, families, and lovers of great food.
For almost 20 years, Bar Tabac hosted one of the most beloved Bastille Day celebrations in the country — an annual pétanque tournament, live music, and authentic French food and beverages that transformed Smith Street into a vibrant French street party, drawing 20,000 attendees at its peak.
