Jets Star C.J. Mosley and Loulou Team Join Forces for Le Petit Village

Photo: Mino Habib, Brandon Wassel, Mathias Van Leyden, CJ Mosley/Daniel Kwak

In a city where culinary dreams come true, the West Village is welcoming its newest gem: Le Petit Village. Opening at 173 7th Ave S, this authentic French bistro is the brainchild of restaurateurs Mathias Van Leyden and Mino Habib, the duo behind Chelsea's beloved Loulou Petit Bistro & Speakeasy. This time, they've teamed up with New York Jets Captain C.J. Mosley and his business partner Brandon Wassel to bring a slice of southern France to the heart of Manhattan.

Drawing inspiration from the quaint villages of Provence, where co-owner Van Leyden spent his childhood in the '70s, Le Petit Village offers a warm and inviting ambiance. Designed by Delphine Mauroit of DMDesign - Architecture, the 3,000-square-foot, bi-level space features reclaimed wood, exposed brick, dark red leather banquettes, and softly lit brass sconces. A vintage fireplace adds to the cozy atmosphere, while the second floor houses a hidden speakeasy, perfect for private events and cocktail tastings.

Photo: Daniel Kwak

Leading the kitchen is Executive Chef Mehjabin Ahmed, a Culinary Institute of America graduate with an impressive background that includes stints at Eleven Madison Park, Le Coucou, and Spice Market. Chef Ahmed brings her expertise in regional French cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients and classic dishes such as Coq au Vin, Cassoulet, Raclette, Ratatouille, and Bœuf Bourguignon. Her diverse upbringing across multiple countries, along with her time in New York City, infuses the menu with subtle Asian and Middle Eastern influences.

The beverage program, curated by mixologist Jeremy Le Blanche, formerly of La Reserve St. Tropez and Thyme Bar NYC, promises an elevated cocktail experience. Standouts include The Rose De Chloe, a rich blend of bourbon, Ratafia, and salted caramel Campari, garnished with meringue and dehydrated rose, and the visually stunning Fleure Blanche, featuring bee pollen-infused vodka, St. Germain Elderflower, and cucumber Pani Puri syrup, topped with baby's breath, dry ice, and edible glitter.

Photo: Daniel Kwak

With its blend of authentic French cuisine, a cozy yet chic atmosphere, and a touch of NFL star power, Le Petit Village is poised to become a cherished addition to the West Village dining scene.

Le Petit Village will initially open for dinner service on Feb 20, 2025, operating Sunday through Wednesday from 5 PM to 11 PM, and Thursday through Saturday from 5 PM to midnight. Lunch and brunch services are slated to debut soon. For reservations, call 646-558-3200 or visit www.lepetitvillagenyc.com.