A new California-meets-France concept called Frenchy’s Hideout is preparing to debut in Hillcrest at 142 W University Ave Ste C.
The new restaurant will move into the former home of Creme de la Crepe in the heart of Hillcrest, according to a recent liquor license application and first reported by San Diego Magazine. Frenchy’s Hideout will sit in a busy neighborhood that has recently seen a lot of turnover. The new concept will share a block with several vacant businesses, including the former home of BeautyLand Salon & Spa and Brazil by the Bay Restaurant and Sports Bar at the corner of University and Third Avenues.
The new venture is the latest from Michael Simpson, who was born in Paris and worked in the restaurant industry for many years. After moving to the United States, the eager business owner worked at French Gourmet in Pacific Beach, Croce’s Park West in Bankers Hill, and Barrio Star, where he worked as the General Manager for seven years before most recently serving as the General Manager at Town and Country Resort. Now, he’s getting ready to open his own restaurant. Simpson tells What Now San Diego that he hopes to open Frenchy’s Hideout in March 2025.
When the restaurant opens, customers can expect a dinner menu focused on multi-course wine dinners. Offerings include seafood towers, beef Bourguignon, and fresh pasta, all paired with wines selected by Simpson and Chef Eric Radoc. While most wines will be from France, domestic selections will be emphasized. Frenchy’s Hideout will feature a moody atmosphere with navy walls, dark wood, and gold accents in an exclusive space with 42 dining seats and five bar seats. The patio will be enclosed with fire pit tables for a more intimate experience.
