A longtime French bistro in Boston’s South End is preparing to close its doors, making way for a new Italian restaurant from a familiar name in the local dining scene.
Seth Woods, founder and executive chef at The Aquitaine Group, today confirmed that his upcoming project, Osteria560, will replace Frenchie Wine Bistro at 560 Tremont Street. Woods also shared an early description of the restaurant, describing it as a “stripped-down Italian concept” focused on craftsmanship, technique, and quality ingredients.
According to a Boston Licensing Board hearing notice, Cazarossi LLC, the company behind Frenchie Wine Bistro, is seeking to transfer its common victualler license to 562 Tremont LLC, the proposed operator of Osteria560.
Founded in 1995, The Aquitaine Group has become a fixture in Greater Boston’s dining scene, with a collection of neighborhood restaurants, each with its own identity. Its portfolio includes Aquitaine Bar à Vin Bistro in the South End and Chestnut Hill, Metropolis Cafe in the South End, and the beloved, now-closed Gaslight Brasserie du Coin, also formerly in the South End.
While the team is keeping specific details under wraps for now, Woods told What Now Boston that Osteria560 will spotlight “ingredient-driven cucina,” with an emphasis on artigianato, the Italian word for craftsmanship and technique. He envisions a neighborhood spot reminiscent of the everyday eateries found throughout Italy, where thoughtful cooking takes center stage.
The proposed 1,900-square-foot space is getting a thoughtful redesign, with a first-floor dining room lined with banquette seating, a bar and kitchen, and an airy dining area with adjustable overhead shades that can be drawn back or extended to suit the mood. Plans also include a seasonal outdoor patio with seating for 17, while proposed operating hours would extend until midnight.
Osteria560 is targeting an opening in late 2026 or early 2027, depending on the timing of the liquor license transfer. Woods said he expects to share more details about the concept as the project progresses.
Frenchie Wine Bistro opened at the Tremont Street address in January 2017 and has spent nearly a decade serving French small plates and comfort-food classics such as escargot toast, steak frites, and steak tartare in a relaxed Parisian setting.
With Osteria560 on the horizon, Woods and The Aquitaine Group are continuing to build on their longstanding presence in Boston’s neighborhood dining scene. Details about the new restaurant are still emerging, and What Now Boston will continue following the project as it takes shape.
