If you grew up in Vancouver eating authentic French food, this one is going to hurt.
For 40 years, Chef Herve Martin has been the man behind some of the city’s most cherished dinners, first at The Hermitage and then at The French Table.
Now, the legend is officially hanging up his apron.
In an emotional newsletter sent to patrons (which a Noms Mag community member shared with us) on Sunday, January 4th, Martin confirmed that “the time has truly come” for him to say goodbye.
At 72 years old, he announced that the restaurant has been officially sold.
Unlike last year, when a potential deal fell through, this sale is final and moving forward with the landlord’s full approval.
To understand the magnitude of this loss, you have to look at the resume of the man in the kitchen.
Martin began his journey as a 15-year-old apprentice in Burgundy.
He honed his skills in Michelin-starred restaurants in France before taking his talents to the kitchens of three-Michelin-starred establishments in Switzerland and France.
His impressive résumé even includes serving as the executive chef to King Leopold of Belgium.
After relocating to Vancouver in 1985, Martin became the executive chef at the Pan Pacific Hotel, overseeing all restaurants and kitchens there, including the opening of the renowned Five Sails.
He then founded the celebrated Hermitage on Robson Street, a staple in Vancouver’s dining scene for 25 years.
In 2011, after the Hermitage’s demolition, he opened The French Table, offering a cozy space for diners to enjoy classic French dishes with a local twist.
The French Table was the spot for raclette gatherings, moules frites, and countless Beef Wellington celebrations.
It was where you went for a glass of wine from his family’s vineyard in Chamilly and a proper cheese fondue with friends.
After retiring, Martin plans to enjoy the simpler joys: tending his vegetable garden and playing his accordion under the stars.
He also plans to finally finish his book, telling the story of a boy who started as “a new slave in the kitchen” and found his way to Vancouver.
The restaurant will remain open for a short transition period to allow regulars to come in for “one last duck confit cassoulet”.
The final service will be on Sunday, January 18th, 2026.
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Address: 3916 Main St, Vancouver, BC