Houston’s historic Market Square Park at 301 Milam St is set to welcome a new culinary gem with the arrival of Petite Lucie, a French-inspired bakery, café, and bar helmed by acclaimed Chef Omar Pereney, who confirmed the new last week. Pereney’s new venture will take over the beloved sit-down restaurant and takeaway counter, adding a fresh dose of French bistro elegance to the area.
Chef Pereney, known for his successful bakery Love Croissants and culinary consultancy Culinary Matters, envisions Petite Lucie as a “love letter” to Downtown Houston. Offering a unique fusion of French cuisine and local charm, the café will be a welcoming retreat for both early risers looking for a fresh croissant and evening diners seeking a relaxing meal under the stars. The café’s menu will take inspiration from iconic regions like Provence, Normandy, and the Mediterranean, creating a culinary experience that is at once refined and approachable.
“Petite Lucie will be the perfect spot to start your day with a freshly baked croissant and a steaming cup of coffee,” says Chef Pereney. “As the day progresses, the café transforms into an inviting lunch spot, offering a variety of savory dishes and refreshing beverages, as well as an expertly curated selection of wines, handcrafted cocktails, aperitifs, and premium beers.” Alongside its café offerings, the outdoor French bistro-style bar promises to be a highlight for park visitors, residents, and theatergoers, adding a refreshing dimension to the Market Square Park experience.
Beyond its everyday café charm, Petite Lucie will also offer an executive catering program, providing pastries, lunch boxes, and beverage services to Downtown Houston offices and residents. With events like Movies Under the Stars and Blanket Bingo on the horizon, the restaurant is poised to become a central part of the local community, offering an authentic slice of French café culture in the heart of Houston.
The restaurant’s opening is scheduled for Spring 2025, following renovations beginning this fall.
