Per Se Alumni Launch New Culinary Venture: Claudine in Providence, Rhode Island

Love blossomed among the kitchen lines at Per Se, where chefs Josh Finger and Maggie McConnell first met while working under the renowned Thomas Keller. This late June, as a husband-and-wife team, they launched their first standalone restaurant, Claudine, in downtown Providence, Rhode Island, McConnell’s hometown.

Reflecting on their seaside summer visit to McConnell’s family, Finger noted, "New England in the summertime is just unbelievable." It was a turning point for them as they considered transitioning from their esteemed roles at Per Se. They desired to create an experience that highlighted Providence’s rich culinary community, shaped in part by the influential Johnson & Wales culinary school in the city. Their approach, characterized by “maximum hospitality,” seeks to transform cooking into an immersive invite for guests. Finger emphasized the importance of curating a holistic experience where the joy in cooking intertwines with guest enjoyment.

Opening Date: June 26

At Claudine, the menu features an “elevated New England dining” experience infused with their French training and culinary finesse honed at Per Se. The restaurant offers an eight-course tasting menu priced at $165, showcasing high-quality ingredients sourced from New England. Dishes include Ossetra caviar served with celeriac crème crêpe and Rhode Island tuna sashimi drizzled with honeynut squash emulsion.

McConnell, a trained pastry chef with experience at the esteemed French Laundry, adds sweet delights to the menu—ranging from pecan-filled choux to an olive oil cake with yogurt panna cotta.

The robust wine list, composed of approximately 175 selections rooted predominantly in French vines, was curated by Finger, with an intent to reflect the same thoughtful approach found in their food. Finger aspires to expand the wine selections to around 350 bottles, highlighting grower Champagnes and weaving narratives around each selection.

Design Aesthetic: The cozy ambiance of Claudine, designed by Edit by Streetsense, features soft lighting and elegant marble accents in a space that accommodates just 26 guests.

In related news, Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey made history as the first sommelier to receive the Julia Child Foundation award, recognizing his extensive contributions to hospitality and mentorship within the industry. Stuckey, known for his work with Frasca Hospitality Group and his previous accomplishments, plans to use the award’s grant to bolster his scholarship fund for hospitality students.

Additionally, Major Food Group is preparing to introduce a new restaurant concept, Carbone Riviera, at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, set to open in fall 2025. The restaurant, taking over the space formerly occupied by the Grand Award-winning Picasso, will focus on seafood and signature pastas, marking a new chapter in dining culture in Las Vegas.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!