Baker’s Dozen: Patrick Del Valle of Petit Louis Bistro

Bonjour! That is how you are likely to be greeted by Maître d’Hôtel Patrick Del Valle as you cross the threshold of the very lovely Roland Park restaurant, Petit Louis Bistro. Patrick makes you feel so welcome and his warmth is absolutely genuine. And, yes, his accent is real – he’s from Lyon, France. (The land of Daniel Boulud.) I sometimes want to practice my French when I see Patrick and then I remember that I’m quite bad at it. So….bonjour, merci, au revoir!

When people find out that I write about food, they usually ask what my favorite restaurant is lately. And consistently, I say Petit Louis. For me, it is (by far) the most consistent restaurant experience you can have in Baltimore. And by no means does that make a visit every feel boring in any way. Not by a mile. Louie is extremely special to me because every part of your meal – from the beautiful space (and parking lot set up, which I love) to service, food, wine, cocktails – all of the details come together so gracefully. In true Foreman Wolf style, they make it seem effortless and Patrick is a huge part of why Louie is so wonderful. And the table side martini pour is just so civilized. Applause, applause.

All of this is to say, Patrick runs a tight ship. He expects a lot from his staff and they certainly deliver – they are the best. And we are ever grateful patrons.

Patrick loves Real Madrid fútbol, Ravens football and most of all, his family. And I consider Patrick a friend. He’s such a nice person. Read on, I think you will enjoy his answers. Merci, Patrick!

Cake or Pie? And what kind?

Both! Carrot cake (this is how I get my vegetables) and for pie “tarte aux pommes”.

Your most prized possession?

My passport.

What’s your favorite thing to order out at restaurants?

Everything on the menu, I love to try new things.

And, your favorite to cook at home?

Crêpes.

What’s your morning beverage and how do you take it?

Espresso over ice. I used to drink four or five a day but now I’m getting old, so just one in the morning.

What’s your personal motto?

If there is a problem, there is a solution. If there is a solution there is no more problem.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas Eve. The tradition is to have friends and family (25-30 people ) at home for a meal that I will cook. The menu changes every year.

Best advice you were ever given? And from whom?

“Don’t spend the money you don’t have.” – my parents 

What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

My family.

The last text you sent?

 “Hala Madrid! Et Allez L’OL”

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Travel, family and food.

What do you love most about food?

Trying foods from other countries and cultures.

What’s your favorite place in Baltimore?

Sherwood Gardens.

^{photos by Petit Louis}

Baker’s Dozen is an occasional column highlighting some of the very talented, hardworking and kind folks in the Baltimore food + beverage community. I hope you will make a point to support their businesses. Here is a link to past profiles.