Chef Michael Serpa debuts his latest venture
Chef Michael Serpa made a name for himself in Boston at the tremendously popular North End seafood stopover Neptune Oyster before branching out on his own with the equally beloved Select Oyster Bar in the Back Bay. Now, five years after his first solo venture opened, Select has a sister restaurant right around the corner with the recent debut of Grand Tour (314 Newbury St., 857-277-0800, grandtourboston.com). This Parisian-style bistro situated in a newly renovated townhouse offers updated takes on the usual French fare—think escargot pie with cauliflower purée and bacon lardon rather than the standard garlic- and butter-drenched snails—along with classics like steak frites (pictured). Wine is also a highlight, with bottles from France and the U.S., and all American vintages available by the glass.