INFO "SOUTH WEST". Commerce in Périgueux: a new captain at the helm of the barge

Under construction for several weeks, the establishment has been completely renovated in preparation for its opening on Saturday, May 31st, with a new menu, a new name, a new crew and a new atmosphere.

It's impossible to miss the banner displayed on the upper deck of the barge moored in Périgueux (Dordogne). "Change of ownership," it proclaims to the thousands of motorists who pass each day on the Saint-Georges bridge just above.

For some time now, the reeds covering the straw huts have regained their golden glow. And everyone has noticed the ballet of construction vehicles and the comings and goings of workers. "We've been working flat out for five weeks," sighs the new owner, Thibaut Larue.

His surname may not mean anything to the inhabitants of Périgueux, even though his brother, Hugo, is none other than the owner of the PMU Le H bar-tabac on Cours Fénelon. On the other hand, his surname will resonate with the ears of the people of Brantôme. For good reason: Thibaut and his wife Mélanie are none other than the former owners of La Guinguette .

"We're starting from scratch, from top to bottom. Let customers understand that there's change."

The establishment was sold in 2023. "The idea was to take over another business, in Brantôme, Périgueux, or elsewhere. Leaving La Guinguette with its private garden with its feet in the grass, we wanted something out of the ordinary, something that would thrill us." The couple is served with La Péniche, a creation from scratch and owned by Guillaume Dalix since 2017, who sold it to them.

The ship's new captain intends to make his mark. "We're starting from scratch, from top to bottom. So customers understand that there's a change: the menu, the name [Editor's note: which he prefers to keep secret until the last minute], all the decor, the furniture, everything is new..." To do what? Thibaut Larue hesitates. "I'd like to keep it a surprise. Let's say it will be a restaurant and brasserie. We're simple people, and we want our customers to feel welcome and have a good time. Like at home, but better."

Note that along with the barge, it also extends onto the quayside with a guinguette and pétanque courts. Its opening to the public is scheduled for Saturday, May 31.