A new French-inspired restaurant called Les Incompetents is preparing to open in St. Catherines at 386 St. Paul Street.
This new restaurant is the latest from the team behind Fat Rabbit, a unique establishment in St. Catharines, according to the company’s social media. Les Incompetents is led by Chef Zach Smith, who brings extensive experience from Toronto’s Bar Raval and Matty Matheson’s Meat & Three in Fort Erie. Chef Smith and his team work closely with local farms that practice regenerative and ethical farming to ensure the highest quality, pasture-raised meats. This commitment to sustainability and quality is reflected in the exceptional offerings at Fat Rabbit.
Now, Smith will shift his focus from the Michelin-recommended restaurant to a new concept, Les Incompetents. The name comes from a line from the movie Home Alone, where a character uses the term to describe others. The new concept will sit in the former home of the Old Lincoln Theatre, which was renovated in 2019 and now offers modern office spaces. While specific opening dates and details about Les Incompetents are yet to be announced, the establishment is anticipated to feature a menu of food, wine, and cocktails, continuing the team’s commitment to quality and innovation in the St. Catharines dining scene.
Despite the lack of information, those interested in this new concept should have high expectations, especially with Smith at the helm. The established chef has earned recognition for focusing on whole-animal butchery and ethical sourcing. Previously Chef de Cuisine at Toronto’s Bar Raval, he opened Fat Rabbit in November 2023, ranked 8th on Air Canada’s 2024 Best New Restaurants list, and received praise from Michelin inspectors. Known for its sustainable practices and house-made charcuterie, Smith’s work has made Fat Rabbit a key player in Ontario’s culinary scene. Now he will take his expertise to invest in this new French-inspired restaurant.
