After a nine-year run in Shaw — “excellent memories and challenging times” — Cedric Maupillier announced he’s closing Convivial December 22. The French chef jokes that his one regret is not saying so earlier. Since the word got out, the restaurant has been “the busiest it’s been in years.” The decision to shutter was partly based on crime in the area and the looming slow season of January.
The silver lining: He’s already partnered with the owners of Barbouzard, the forthcoming French-Mediterranean restaurant at 1700 K St. NW, “an offer I couldn’t refuse,” says Maupillier, who had been shopping around for a different restaurant space the past few years.
