That F word dirty no more

Sacre bleu!

Wasn’t it just a few months ago that anything French was about as

palatable as day-old baguettes?

Viewed as lily-livered opponents to the war in Iraq not so long

ago, the French were the source of scorn and ridicule.

French wine was being poured down drains, French fries were

renamed freedom fries, and the makers of French’s Mustard launched a

public relations campaign to denounce any connections to the

much-maligned European nation.

Apparently all has been forgiven, at least here in Newport-Mesa.

Locals are salivating in anticipation of two new French eateries

to be opened by visionary entrepreneur David Wilhelm -- Chat Noir

near the Performing Arts Center and the bistro Rouge in what was

formerly Chimayo at Newport Center.

Add to the broth some of the other French culinary venues like

Golden Truffle, Pascal and Troquet and you have enough quiche to feed

Paris.

Maybe patriotism just isn’t as strong as a craving for escargot.

Ce la vie.