The French Goat

Imagine a cozy corner of France transported to the heart of historic Lewisburg. This is the atmosphere offered by The French Goat—an exquisite bistro that has been considered a gem of the Greenbrier Valley in the USA since 2015. It is a place where classic European traditions meet West Virginia hospitality.

The French Goat. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The establishment has been repeatedly recognized as the best restaurant for fine dining and the perfect spot for brunch by the prestigious WV Living Magazine. The restaurant's interior is thoughtfully designed down to the smallest detail: elegant dining rooms with shimmering chandeliers and fresh flowers are complemented by a charming garden courtyard with a fountain, perfect for al fresco dining during the warmer months.

The bistro’s authenticity is enhanced by the fact that many of the decor items and furniture were brought by the owners directly from France. This allows guests to feel as though they are visiting an old French home where comfort, aesthetics, and, of course, impeccable cuisine are highly valued.

For your convenience, we have gathered the main contact details for the establishment. You can book a table in advance to guarantee your spot at this popular bistro.

At The French Goat, guests can expect a true culinary journey led by talented chef Hannah Reid. The menu features classic French dishes with a signature twist, prepared exclusively using fresh local ingredients. Be sure to try the tender farm-raised lamb or the exquisite sunchoke soup with crispy potatoes.

Special attention should be paid to the desserts and drinks. Sunday brunch here is a ritual in itself, featuring a magnificent lemon meringue tart and chocolate ganache, with coffee served in traditional French presses. The wine list and craft cocktails are curated to complement the flavors of every dish.

Thanks to its impeccable service and romantic setting, this place is ideal for celebrating special occasions—whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or simply a beautiful evening for two. The attentive staff goes above and beyond to ensure every visit becomes a small but memorable event.

Finding The French Goat is easy, as the restaurant is located at 290 Lafayette Street in the heart of the historic city center. This location is ideal for those who prefer walking: the bistro is in close proximity to numerous local shops, art galleries, and other city attractions.

If you are traveling by car, Lewisburg is conveniently located at the intersection of key regional roads and is about an hour's drive from the main interstate highway. For guests of the famous The Greenbrier resort, visiting this restaurant has become a fond tradition, as the drive from the hotel to the establishment takes very little time.

Public transport in small US towns is quite specific, so tourists often find it most convenient to use a taxi or a rental car. There are parking spaces in the central part of the city, making a visit to the restaurant as comfortable as possible for drivers.

The story of The French Goat began in September 2015, when husband-and-wife team Debbie Porter and Arthur Forgette decided to trade the hustle and bustle of the Washington, D.C. area for the quiet charm of West Virginia. Arthur, with over 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, and Debbie, a marketing expert, realized their dream of owning a cozy establishment in the town they had fallen in love with during years of regular visits.

Just a year after opening, the restaurant celebrated its first anniversary in style, hosting a gala dinner with a tasting of rare wines from the owners' private collection. This evening laid the tradition of a special relationship with regular guests and high-level gastronomic events that continue to this day.

By August 2025, the establishment celebrated its tenth anniversary, firmly establishing itself as one of the most prestigious and beloved restaurants in the state. The project's success inspired the owners to launch new ventures in Lewisburg, including the boutique hotel Maison Marcel and the popular coffee shop Retro Donuts, further enhancing their contribution to the local tourism infrastructure.

A visit to The French Goat is more than just a meal; it is a full gastronomic experience that shouldn't be rushed. To fully enjoy the courses, fine wines, and the French bistro atmosphere, we recommend setting aside 2 to 3 hours for dinner.

If you plan to stop by for the famous Sunday brunch, an hour and a half or two hours will be quite sufficient. Keep in mind that during peak hours and on weekends, the restaurant can be fully booked, so waiting times and the meal itself may take a little longer.

The exact schedule of The French Goat may vary depending on the season and holidays. It is known that the restaurant is open for lunch, and a popular brunch is served here on Sundays.

As the establishment is in high demand, we strongly recommend checking the current working hours on the official website or confirming them by phone before your visit. It is also advisable to book a table in advance, especially if you plan to visit on the weekend.

Lewisburg is a city with a rich past and a cozy atmosphere, so a visit to the restaurant can easily be complemented by exploring local monuments and cultural centers. A stroll through the historic streets after an exquisite meal will help you better feel the spirit of this region.

Within a few minutes' walk of the bistro, you will find both cozy bars and important historical markers. Below is a list of interesting places located nearby: